Baker, Bernie Ray Age 71, formerly of Elk Mound, WI, passed away on November 16th, surrounded by family at his home in Wasilla, AK.  He was born Jan 30th, 1952 in Winterville, NC, to Joe and Bertha (Manning) Baker.

Preceded in death by his parents, wife Colleen Faye Kopp, brothers Bert, Gene and Gray, sisters Ann Gatling and Linda.  Survived by his children, Bernie Jr, (Missy) Barbara, Becky Reynolds (Terry), Mary Sieh (Chris), Matthew, Travis (Jessi), many grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as brothers Joe (Juanita) and Ricky, sisters Millie Taylor (Steve) and Brenda Bowen (Archie).

Bernie was married to his wife, Colleen, for 36 years. Her passing earlier this year left a void, which along with his health problems, he died from a broken heart.  Bernie knew the Lord and trusted in His promises that he would be with Jesus and his beloved Colleen again in Heaven. Bernie's love for his home state of North Carolina never left him. One of his greatest pleasures in life was going back to see family, spend time at the ocean, and enjoyed eastern North Carolina BBQ...vinegar not mustard! In his 50 years as a journeyman lineman, Bernie traveled the country and found his Colleen.  They settled down in Elk Mound, WI, where they raised a family and enjoyed hobby farming.  Bernie was an avid NRA supporter and outdoorsman; the deer population plummeted once he moved in, it may finally be able to make a comeback! Bernie enjoyed boating and fishing, with his latest excursion being shore fishing for halibut in Homer, Alaska. In his retirement, Bernie loved to hit the open road, along with anything that got in the way of his motorhome.

An intimate funeral service will be held Monday, December 11, 11:00 AM at Lenmark-Gomsrud-Linn Funeral Home, West chapel in Eau Claire, WI, 1405 North Clairemont. Pastor Dale Bussinger officiating. Visitation will be held at 10:00 AM until time of service. Bernie will be buried next to his beloved Colleen, in Rock Falls, WI, immediately following the service.