G. Helen Baker, 89, died Tuesday , December 26, at the Embrace Hospice House in Myrtle Beach, SC. Mrs. Baker was born in Whitinsville, Mass., to the late George T. Oosterman and Josephine (Josie) Koopmans. After her mother’s death, Baker was raised by her stepmother Edith Oosterman.
Mrs. Baker was married to John C. Baker on June 6, 1950, in Whitinsville, Mass., and they were married for 67 years. She worked for Northwestern Mutual Insurance Company for a few years, but her priorities were being a homemaker while volunteering at the church and helping others.
A visit to the Baker’s house almost always involved a homemade dessert that Baker had prepared that day. She faithfully wrote a handwritten letter to all her children every week for years and continued to do so even after discovering email in her late 70s.
Baker's hobbies included baking, the church bell choir, and knitting. Many babies born in hospitals in North Carolina and Indiana had their first pictures taken while wearing baby hats Mrs. Baker had knit.
In 1998, Baker, along with her husband John, were recipients of the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Volunteer Service for helping the homeless in Richmond County.
Mrs. Baker spent many hours each week cooking food for the homeless shelter and considered the men and women as part of her extended family. The homeless shelter in Rockingham was renamed “The Baker House.”
G. Helen Baker is survived by her sons Russell Baker (Linda), David Baker (Jeri) and Douglas Baker (Doris), one daughter, Judy Patterson (Rick), six grandchildren and one great grandchild. Additionally, Baker is survived by brothers Jim Oosterman and Ralph Oosterman. Baker was preceded in death by her brothers Ray Oosterman and Lenny Oosterman, and her husband passed away just days after her death.
Visitation will be held Saturday, December 30, from 12:45-1:45 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home in Rockingham, followed by a 2 p.m. service to celebrate the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Baker.
Memorials may be given to Embrace Hospice, Habitat for Humanity, or your local homeless shelter.
Condolences may be made online at www.carterfuneral.net.
