F. “Lee” LeMoyne Baker, 69, of Lacon, passed away at 2:45 p.m. on Monday, February 26, 2007 at Methodist Medical Center in Peoria.
     Lee was born on March 8, 1937 in Fairmont, NE, son of Howard B. and Delores Harger Baker. They preceded him in death.
     Lee is survived by two daughters, Lisa Hollingsworth of Camdenton, MO and Linn (Thomas) Perkins of Peoria; two sons, Greg Baker of Phoenix, AZ and Jon Baker of Glasford; sister, Glenda Stamper of Jamesport, MO; two brothers, Byron (Patricia) Baker of Lena and James (Paula) Baker of Chadwick; stepmother, Nelda Baker of Freeport; and eight grandchildren.
     Lee was a graduate of Western Illinois University and retired, after thirty years of service, as an Electron Micropocist, with the USDA Northern Regional Research Laboratory in Peoria. He was formerly employed with Caterpillar, Inc. at the Tech Center in Mossville and was also formerly a mathematics and science teacher at Lacon High School.
     Lee enjoyed golfing, fishing, horticulture, working crossword puzzles, playing poker and taking road trips on his motorcycle. He enjoyed listening to all music, from classical to older country - except the Beatles. He acquired many friends through the years, from growing up as a child, to his co-workers at the lab and his dear friends in Lacon.
     Lee collected music CDs and movies, enjoyed watching football - especially the Chicago Bears and Walter Payton - and Fighting Illini Basketball. He enjoyed spending his time at Club LaCon, the Woodcutter and staying at home watching movies, sports or the Food Channel. Christmas was one of his favorite times of the year, because he liked to send and receive Christmas cards.
     Lee loved a good joke – and knew how to tell one. He collected several nicknames over the years. He was known as “LeMoyne” by his family, “Pud” to his childhood friends, “Pa Lee” to his grandchildren and “Bake” to his many old friends. His family is proud of him for attaining his Physics degree and dedicating thirty years of his life as a research scientist.
     Lee was a quiet, intelligent and introspective man. He had a fantastic memory, was never judgmental and was always there for support if needed.
A private family service will be held, with interment at Lena Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Lacon-Sparland Emergency 52. Arrangements are entrusted to Clary Funeral Consultants in Peoria.