Final Salute

Francis Gene Baker, 97, of Excelsior Springs, Missouri passed away October 11, 2025 at home. A visitation will be held from 12:00-1:00PM, Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Excelsior Springs. A memorial service will follow beginning at 1:00PM.
Francis was born March 11, 1928 to Chester Lee Baker and Mattie Leona (Hightower) Baker. After attending Excelsior Springs High School he joined the United States Navy. He was a Navy Seabee at Port Hueneme during the end of WWII. Francis married Bessie Jean Barker July 1, 1948. They shared life for 74 years. During that time they had four children: Stanley Lee Baker (Eva), Dennis James Baker, Linda Sue (Baker) Howerton (Dan) and Gail Louise Baker. He raised his family in Excelsior Springs and was a police officer for the local community. Francis was a Detective and later retired a Lieutenant from the Excelsior Springs Police Department as their only motorcycle officer. During his life he held many jobs. He was an auctioneer, antique dealer, truck driver, and a small business owner among others.
Francis is preceded in death by his beloved wife Jean, both parents, and both sons.
Survivors include daughters Linda Howerton (Dan) and Gail Baker; five grandchildren: Chris Baker, Stephanie Baker, Crystal Boucher (Billy), Danny E. Howerton, Jr. (Christina), and Jeff Baker (Danielle); fourteen great grandchildren: Bre’Anna, Chandler, Courtney (Ethan), Tre (Jasmine), Mason, Aubrey, Carsyn, Max, Zachary, Caleb, Elijah, Devin, Jacob, and Abigail; three great-great grandchildren: Avery, Eden, and Harley and a beloved pet cat named Butterscotch.
He will be missed by all.
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