Eldon "Howard" Baker, Jr

Eldon “Howard” Baker Jr. was born June 19, 1944, in Los Angeles CA to Eldon Baker Sr. and Julia McNish.  He passed peacefully on March 11,2025 in Salem Oregon.  

He spent his lifetime talking about “talking”.  His first book “The One Minute Communicator” became a bible for those who were presented with the task of getting up and talking in front of a group.  While in Oregon he taught at the Willamette University Master's Program and DPSST as an instructor for supervisors in all fields - law enforcement, fire services, corrections, emergency medical services and many more.  

Survivors include: his wife Sherrie Baker; Brothers Kendall (Donna) Wall, Derek Wall and Duane Wall.  Children; Eldon Baker III, Heidi Wert, Ashley (Brian) Scotto, Blake Baker, Kim Weis, and Todd McMillan.  Grandchildren: Alicia Wert, Amber Wert, Sierra Wert, Trenton McMillan, Skylar Weis, Sawyer Weis, RaeLynn McMillan, Shelby Weis, Hudson Scotto, and Shylow Terrell.

He is preceded in death by his parents Eldon and Julia Baker and Darrell Wall (Stepfather) along with siblings: Yvonne Raines, Leah Heinrich, Larry and Roger Wall.  

             “To Those I Love” by Howard Baker Jr. 

When I am gone, release me, let me go

I have so many things to see and do

You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears

Instead, be happy what we shared in life for o'er the many years.

I gave you all my love, and you can only guess

How much you all gave it back to me in ways of happiness.

I thank you for the love you've shown

But now it's time I travel alone

So grieve a while for me if grieve you must

Then, let your grief be comforted by trust

For its only for a while that we must part

Please, please bless your memories with your loving heart.

I won't be far away, for life truly does go on

And if you ever need me, just call and I will come. 

Though you won't see or touch me, please know that I'll be near

And if you'll only listen with your heart, You'll hear

All my love around you, with you, soft and clear.

And then, when you too must come this way alone

I'll be there for you.

I'll Greet you with a smile, and welcome you too, in heaven, 

To a place we'll call our home.