Joanne B. Baker

LEWISBURG - Joanne B. Baker, 86, died Tuesday, April 05, 2016 at the Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg. Born on February 05, 1930 in Milton, she was the daughter of the late George Sterling and Evelyn M. (Dennis) Baker. A proud citizen of West Milton, Joanne had a rich life of many accomplishments. She graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and began a career in operating room nursing in Philadelphia, and then subsequently, Chicago, and Harrisburg. In 1958. Joanne joined the Pennsylvania Air National Guard (she loved flying) and in 1968 was called to active duty during the Vietnam War. In 1976 she was honorably discharged with the rank of major. Moving back to West Milton, Joanne began her next career, teaching nursing at Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport. Joanne enjoyed the simple pleasures in life: gardening; flower arranging; reading a good book; and having a good laugh. Steve Allen, Johnny Carson, and Jay Leno were her favorites; she was a night owl. Joanne, affectionately known as Aunt Sue, is survived by one sister-in-law; Nancy Baker, one nephew; Stephen (Andrea) Williams and 3 nieces; Susan (Jay) Wright and their daughter, Megan (Bryan) Mercer, Leigh Baker and Melinda (Brian) Chidester and their children Brian (Colleen), and Casey and Julie Ann. In addition to her parents, Joanne was predeceased by one brother; Eugene Baker and one sister and brother-in-law; Dolores and Elwood “Sonny” Williams. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: St. Paul’s Church of Christ, 433 High Street, West Milton, PA 17886. A private family graveside service will be held Saturday, April 16, 2016 in the Lewisburg Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by The Dale E. Ranck Funeral Service, 125 N. Front Street, Milton.