David Timothy Baker

July 16, 1952 – Nov. 8, 2021

David Timothy Baker, 69, Crawfordsville, passed away peacefully on Nov. 8, 2021, at his Crawfordsville home surrounded by several family members after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born on July 16, 1952, in Crawfordsville, to the late Lewis and Minta Mae Baker.

Mr. Baker was one of sixteen children. He enjoyed running track and won several ribbons during his youth. He attended Ladoga and New Market Schools.

Mr. Baker lived in Ladoga most of his childhood and worked on local farms at a young age. On Oct. 28, 1978, he married Debra Ann Taylor, she survives. Mr. Baker adored his three daughters, Jenny Baker of Ladoga, Ashley (Kyle) Ford and Megan (Eric Staggs) VanBibber both of Crawfordsville. In his adult life he had many titles while working at Lifetime Gate, Crestline, Midstates Wire, Alcoa CSI and Sommer Metal Craft before retiring in 2017. His work ethic, skill and determination were one to envy. Even in his retirement he worked in his garage from morning to night until he was unable to due to his illness.

Mr. Baker loved cars. He was a self-taught and highly skilled mechanic. He provided auto and small engine repair to anyone in need. He enjoyed working in his garage. He was a do-it-yourself guy and you could see pride in everything he fixed or built. He enjoyed spending time with his family. He could always be heard whistling and singing along to his favorite tunes as he worked. Mr. Baker enjoyed his morning coffee while looking out his kitchen window or sitting on his back step when the weather allowed. He enjoyed spending his few years of retirement with his wife and collies, the late Trevor and Bleu.

In addition to his wife and daughters, survivors include his grandchildren, Misty (Noah) Wiles of Crawfordsville, Dalton Gatlin of Ladoga, Destony Gatlin of Crawfordsville, Trinady Ward, Nathen Ford, Natalie (Tyeson) Hendon all of Crawfordsville, Kristan Ward of Terre Haute, Nicolas Ford of Crawfordsville, Trevor Ward of Judson, Jaxon VanBibber, Elizabeth Ford, Jagger VanBibber, Wyatt Ford, Abel Staggs, Aiden Staggs, Lilly Staggs and Lilah Staggs all of Crawfordsville; great-grandchildren, Brody Huxford, Datsun Gatlin, Kinley Veach, Haylen Fulwider and Jamison Wiles all of Crawfordsville; his siblings, June Casey of Illinois, Jean Perkins of Roachdale, Bill (Judy) Baker of Lake Holiday, Edgar Lewis Baker, Naomi Wertz both of Crawfordsville, Jon Baker of Mace, Ruby Reedy of Bloomingdale, Lois (Randy) Whitehead of Illinois and Cathy (Dan) Overfelt of Waynetown; as well as several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by siblings, Samuel Baker, Errol “Dean” Baker, Janet Jones, Betty Lott, Sharon Crane and Rebecca Haley; and a granddaughter, Jadence VanBibber.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Nov. 20, 2021 at the First Baptist Church, 1905 Lebanon Road in Crawfordsville from 1-4 p.m. for family and friends.