DAVID “WAYNE” BAKER

CARL JUNCTION- David “Wayne” Baker, 72, Carl Junction, died Monday, April 8, 2024, at Solace House of the Ozarks with his family by his side. He was born March 1, 1952 at Baxter Springs, Kan. to Ray Warren and Patricia (Choch) Baker.

The year 1970 was big for Mr. Baker, as he graduated high school, got married and became a father. He married Patty Hurrell and to this union one son, Michael, was born. They later divorced. In 1974 he married Floydean Pancake and to this union two daughters were born, Crystal and Amber. They later divorced. In 2013 he remarried his first love, Patty, and they resided in Carl Junction until his passing.

Music was a big part of his life. At age 14 he started playing in his father’s band, Ray Baker and the Hit Makers. He played bass guitar and drums. He also played in many bands across the four-state area including the Crusaders for Christ gospel music band. He was also a member of the Kansas Steel Guitar Association for many years.

Fishing was his favorite hobby. Every spring he could be found on lakes and rivers catching white bass and spoonbill.

He was a member of Kingdom Life Fellowship Church and Carterville United Methodist Church.

He leaves behind his wife, Patty, of the home, one son, Michael O’Dwyer and wife Sounay, Bow, Wash.; two daughters, Crystal Baker and Amber Crum, Joplin; one stepdaughter, Christy Braden, Rupert, Idaho; one stepson, Jacob O’Dwyer, Carl Junction; one sister, Donna Baugh and husband Ted, Carthage; 10 grandchildren; one great-grandson, Hudson and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Also, his fishing buddy, Lynn McCray.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Patricia Baker.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Solace House of the Ozarks, Joplin, or Carterville Methodist Church.

Arrangements are under the direction f Mason-Woodard Mortuary in Joplin.