Russell Karl Baker

Thursday, March 16, 2006

Russell Karl Baker, 89, Greencastle, died Wednesday at Putnam County Hospital.

Born in Crawfordsville, he was the son of Adam "Wade" and Mary (Terry) Baker.

A 1934 graduate of New Market High School, he attended Purdue University, studying mechanical engineering.

He married Hazel A. (Boswell) Baker on Dec. 24, 1941. She preceded him in death.

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving in World War II as an aviation machinist mate, Third Class.

He was employed with Allison's Division of General Motors for 35 years, working in the material lab as a metallurgist, before retiring in 1975.

Survivors include sons B. Brent Baker and wife Jill, Bloomington, Martin Baker and wife Ann, Zionsville, and Steve Baker, Grand Rapids, Mich.; five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, a grandchild, Aaron Baker, and six siblings.

Funeral services will take place at 2 p.m. Monday, March 20, at Bittles and Hurt Funeral Home with the Rev. Larry Boswell officiating. Interment will be in the Pine Lawn Mausoleum at Forest Hill Cemetery.

Visitation is from noon until time of service at the funeral home on Monday.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Putnam County Library, 103 E. Popular St., Greencastle, 46135.

Condolences may be e-mailed to inbth@keystonegroup.com.