Rudolph Channing “Chan” Baker, 89, of Eureka, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.
Born on April 7, 1936, He was the proud son of the late Rudolph Ezra and Ruby Baker. He grew up with strong values, a sharp sense of humor, and an unwavering love for people. A 1954 graduate of Hermann High School, Chan was known even then for his quick wit, easygoing charm, and his talent for making friends wherever he went.
Chan served honorably in the United States Air Force for eight years — a commitment that reflected his deep sense of duty and pride in his country.
He was the beloved husband of Margaret (Cairns) Baker, with whom he shared a lifetime of adventures, devotion, and laughter. Their love story was one of friendship and partnership filled with road trips, beach sunsets, quiet mornings with coffee, and happy hours with a perfectly crafted Rob Roy.
Chan was many things — a storyteller, a jokester, a sharp card player, a proud American, and the life of any gathering. He was known far and wide for mixing the best Chi-Chi’s in the world and for his never-ending stash of memorable (and sometimes infamous) jokes. He loved watching golf, keeping up with the latest on Fox News, and spending Friday nights under the lights cheering on his hometown Eureka Wildcats. Whether it was a holiday party or a casual backyard BBQ, Chan had a way of bringing people together and making them feel at home.
He found joy in the simple things: a cold drink on a summer night, a spirited poker game that lasted until sunrise, or sitting on the porch telling stories with old friends. But above all, Chan found his greatest happiness in his family.
He is survived by his loving wife, Margaret, and sons Michael (JoAnn) Baker and Grier (Lisa) Baker; his grandchildren Tiffany (Van Deep) Gupta, Travis Baker, Kristina Thomas, Megan Baker Boese, Colton (Emily) Baker, and Courtney (Karl) Nichols; and his daughter-in-law Sharon “Chiggy” Baker. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren Gracelyn Yohnk, Caden Baker, Blaine Baker, Veda Gupta, and Caden Nichols.
He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Stuart Baker, and grandson, Riley Baker.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the USO of Missouri, an organization close to Chan’s heart and reflective of his deep respect for those who serve. Raise a glass, share a story, or tell a joke in his memory — he would have loved that.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, July 22, at 12:30 p.m., with Fr. Leo officiating at Most Sacred Heart in Eureka. Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. at Jefferson Barracks with full military honors.
Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St., Jefferson City, MO 65109. (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com