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Neil George Baker, age 68, of Helena, passed away unexpectedly on May 23, 2009, in Montana City.
Neil was born on June 7, 1940, in Fargo, N.D., to Donald and Nida (Davenport) Baker. He attended Fargo Central high School and NDS-ROTC. Neil married Donna I. Henne on Feb. 24, 1996, in Missoula.
Family was very important to Neil and he looked forward to the family reunions every July. Neil also loved to sing at Karaoke, (his favorite song was “My Way”) and also to play Texas Hold ‘em. He was a great joke teller and liked to make people feel good. He had a great smile.
Neil was an avid sports fan (all sports), but his favorite teams were the Dodgers, Celtics, Vikings and the Arizona Cardinals. Neil served in the armed forces from 1959 to 1962. Neil will be missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife, Donna of Helena; two sons, Scott (Angela) of Apache Junction, Ariz., and Chris (Shauna) Baker of Mesa, Ariz.; two step-sons, Jack (Lisa) Miller of Butte and Keith (Marti) Miller of Texas; step-daughter, Deanna Van Steenvort of Butte; three sisters, Carol Bergoust and Joni (Milan) Cook of Minnesota and Linda (John) Piper of Iowa; 11 grandchildren; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends; and also by his ex-wife, Sandra Lee (Flight) Peralta of Stevensville.
The following playlist has 2 songs sung by Neil. He loved his Karaoke!
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Jack Miller |
" Neil was my dad and my best friend. I will forever miss him. He was the best man I have ever knew. He made my mom the happiest person in the world. He also made me the man I am today. He was always giving and willing to help others. I am so blessed he was in my life. I love you Dad! " |
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Ruth Engh Westrick |
" There is a large group of classmates from FCHS in Fargo, ND who will forever appreciate having been able to spend time with Neil at our recent reunion. He enjoyed living life to its fullest and invited all of us to join in.
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George Baker |
" Throughout High School, Neil and I were always next to each other in class as they were arranged alphabetically. I'm not that tall, but I was always taller than Neil, until he got out of Service. He grew a foot during that time. I didn't recognize him when I ran into him at a local pub. It was good to see him at the 50th reunion. (I didn't realize his middle name was George.) " |
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Wilmot J. Collins |
" I met Neil on the evening of his death, I could tell immediately he was a fun loving person, he had a broad, smile when he walked over to me to introduce himself. To the family, my sincere sympathy to you and take comfort in knowing that he is with our Lord. " |
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chickie Arneson Bakkemo |
" I knew Neil from Hawthorne Grade school all the way through The last reunion last summer. He was a good friend and was full of joy and fun. He will be missed. I extend my sympathy to his family and friends. " |
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Marti Miller |
" Mom, Jack, Deanna, Keith, family and friends, I'm finding it difficult to put into words how much Neil meant to me. He was one of the most lighthearted and geniune people I have ever known and I am greatful that he was a part of my life and all of yours. His joy for life, love and family is what I will remember. He was opened armed when I came into the family and made me feel welcomed. But, what I will remember the most is the happiness that he brought into Donna's life and into her eyes. Mom, when you looked at Neil I knew what it looked liked to love with all your heart and soul. I wish I could be there to hold you and cry with you. " |
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Bruce Stainbrook |
" It was good seeing and visiting with Neal at our 50th. high school reunion last summer. Many good times from Fargo Central were reminisced. " |
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John Ginakes |
" I'm so glad I got a chance to spend time with Neil at our 50th...to Neils family, Please accept my deepest sympathies " |
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Lisa Charbonneau |
" Donna and Family,
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Deanna Vansteenvort |
Neil was my Dad and one of the most caring and giving men i've known in my life. i alway's enjoyed watching him sing Karaoke. He always new how to make you smile and laugh. I will miss you so much. I will always carry you in my heart. I love you!!!! |
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Carrie Schafer |
I was deeply saddened to hear about Neil's passing. I know how difficult it must be for all of you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I remember Neil as a funny, generous person and I am very grateful for having the chance of knowing him.
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sara labbe & family |
my dear sister.
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Donna |
You have been gone a month now and I miss you more than ever. I remember a lot of our wonderful times together and your funny little quirks. You made me so happy. I love you forever. |