Jerry Baker

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gerald Dean "Jerry" Baker, of Red Oak, Iowa on Wednesday January 22nd, 2025. Jerry was a proud father, dedicated husband, and loyal friend, who left us far too soon at the age of 67.

Jerry Baker was born on May 27th, 1957, in Corning, Iowa. He was the son of Willis and Regina "Jean" (Ellis) Baker. Jerry met his match and the love of his life on an Oakview job site in 1988. Four years later he married Rhonda Rea on May 2nd, 1992, in Red Oak, Iowa. Jerry and Rhonda have two daughters, Zoey and Macy. Jerry could not have loved his girls any more than he did. He was their biggest supporter, coach, and friend. He felt so fortunate to also gain a son in Drew Swanson. Jerry enjoyed the time he spent with his wife and kids whether it was cheering them on, family time, watching games together or helping with home projects. He was so very proud of his family and the life he had built.

Jerry grew up in the Nodaway and Villisca area, graduating from Villisca High School in 1975. During his high school years, Jerry was involved in many school activities. He was a skilled athlete, accomplished drummer, and class president. He excelled at basketball and was the Villisca High School scoring leader for many years. He went on to attend IWCC in Clarinda, Iowa before beginning his construction career.

Jerry worked in construction for over 40 years. The bulk of his career was spent with Oakview Construction as a Superintendent and then Project Manager, managing local, national and government projects. Jerry was known for his ability to build quality projects on time while maintaining strong client and subcontractor relationships. He understood what it took to get the job done and always faced a challenge head on. After Oakview Construction dissolved, Jerry finished his Project Management career with Vincentini Plumbing, retiring in 2021.

Jerry's approach with every aspect of his life was: go big or go home. This applied to his many hobbies over the years. He was a talented golfer, always striving to improve his game. He hunted pheasant, deer and coyotes over the years, enjoying the sport of it along with the excitement of the chase. The laughter and camaraderie he experienced with his friends was equally important as the outcome of the hunt or the game. Fishing was both a current and past passion and he was eagerly awaiting Spring weather to get his new boat out on the lake and reel in the big catch. When on dry land, he was a master gardener who loved to share his bounty with family and friends. He raised many dogs over the years, making sure each animal that left his kennels found a quality home. His two dogs, Hank and Lemmy Lou, were his constant companions and were so loved.

Jerry leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and lessons in loyalty and strength. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father. Survivors include his wife: Rhonda Baker of Red Oak, Iowa; daughters: Zoey Swanson and husband Drew of Red Oak, Iowa, and Macy Baker of Red Oak, Iowa; mother: Jean Baker of Red Oak Iowa; brothers: Mike Baker and wife Michelle of Fremont, Nebraska, and Brad Baker of Red Oak, Iowa; mother-in-Law: Phyllis Bruce and husband Kenny of Red Oak, Iowa; sister-in-Law: Sheila Weeks and husband Eric of Spencer, Iowa; brother-in-Law: Brett Rea of Red Oak, Iowa; as well as several other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 5-7 PM Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Red Oak Country Club.  Private graveside services will be held at Evergreen Cemetery.

LeRette Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.