BAKER, Berniece 1927-2012

BAKER, WILTFANG

Posted By: Tammy (email)
Date: 2/24/2019 at 17:38:14

Berniece Annette Wiltfang Baker, 85 passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family and friends on December 5, 2012.

Berniece was born on June 12, 1927 in Albion, Iowa to her parents Ben and Gladys Wiltfang. She had 2 brothers, Calvin Wiltfang and Dr. Bernard Wiltfang. The family established a farm outside of Wellsburg, Iowa, where they resided for many years. Berniece came to Des Moines to further her schooling. She worked at the Younkers Tea Room as she studied cosmetology. During this time she met Bernard J. Baker Jr. at the Tromar Ballroom, while he was on leave from the U.S. Navy. They married January 4, 1947 and raised 3 children. Berniece owned and operated Hilltop Beauty Salon for over 50 years. She loved finding the right hair cut, color or style to accent her client's natural beauty. Together they began Baker Plumbing & Heating in 1963 which is now known as The Baker Group. Even as the business grew Berniece would maintain a presence at the office enjoying everyone's company and treating them as family.

She will be celebrated by her family and friends for her zest for life, wisdom and loving nature.

Berniece was a loyal and devoted friend to all giving her support and compassion tirelessly.

During her "retirement" she spent winters at their home in Punta Gorda, Florida. She enjoyed an adventure be it to Starbucks for a stout cup of coffee as well as traveling the world. She was known as "the super shopper" and would return from their travels with the newest treasure to decorate her home or gifts for family & friends.

Her husband of 50 years, Bernard J. Baker Jr. passed away in 1997. Their children are Janice Baker, B.J. Baker III (Tiffany) and Gregory Wiltfang Baker. She was a warm and caring grandmother to, Emily Haines, Treynor, Chloe, Wyatt, Genevieve Baker, Ben and Maggie Kemp. Berniece will be laid to rest beside her husband and granddaughters, Brandi Rose & Nikole Lynne Baker.

Visitation will be held at Dunn's Funeral Home, 2121 Grand Avenue on Friday, December 7, 2012 from 6-8:00 p.m. A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 8, 2012 at Staves United Methodist Church, 2747 E. Madison in Des Moines at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at the Masonic Cemetery at 1550 48th Street in Des Moines.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Berniece's memory to Mainstream Living for The Baker House or Staves United Methodist Church.

--Iles Funeral Homes (www.ilesfuneralhomes.com)