Howard J. Baker

HOLLIDAYSBURG, PA - Howard J. Baker, 91, formerly of York, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2009 at Hollidaysburg Veteran Home. He was the husband of the late Genevieve M. Baker and the late Mary Ann (Dodson) Baker. Funeral services will be private. Burial will be in Prospect Hill Cemetery. Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 1551 Kenneth Road, York is in charge of arrangements. Born June 25, 1917 in Harrisburg a son of the late Thomas F. and Pearl M. (Corsnitz) Baker, he was a graduate of Swatara Twp. High School in Harrisburg. Mr. Baker had been a salesman for American News Co. and the former York Auto Parts. He was a member of Intl. Order of Odd fellows; York Amateur Radio Club; Hawks Gunning Club; and the former York Moose Lodge; and Zion United Methodist Church. He was a US Army veteran of WWII where he was awarded five Bronze Stars. Sgt. Baker also served as the secretary for the WWII members of the Headquarter Company 6th Ranger Infantry Battalion reunion group. Mr. Baker is survived a step daughter, Sharon L. and husband Rodney Kershaw of Jacobus; a step grandson, Rhys Kershaw; and a nephew, Thomas Baker. He was preceded in death by a brother, Gilbert F. Baker. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer's Assoc., 3544 N. Progress Ave., Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110.