Baker, Donna A. 1924-2013

BAKER, LEATHERMAN, PFEIFF, SCOTT

Posted By: Volunteer Transcriber
Date: 9/30/2013 at 17:48:24

Donna A. Baker

1924 - 2013 | Obituary

Baker, Donna A. ESCONDIDO -- Donna A. Baker, 89, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home on Tuesday, September 24, 2013. She was surrounded by loving family members and her longtime friend and care giver Margaret "Peaches" Oliva.

She was born in Newton, Iowa on March 5, 1924 and was preceded in death by her parents, Virgil and Lillian Leatherman; brothers, Ward and Francis Leatherman; sister, Billie Pfeiff; granddaughter, Jami Howard; and her husband of 54 years, Jonathan "Gene" Baker. She is survived by her son, Greg Baker; and daughters, Vicki Howard (husband Eddie), Susie Scott (husband Roger) and Terri Baker (survives her late companion Steve); as well as seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, all of whom she cherished beyond measure. Together with her husband they raised their four children in Escondido, California.

Throughout her life, she was ever-present, whilst always on-the-move. You had best be up early in the morning if you thought of catching her before she was off and running! She moved through each day with, what seemed to be, the perfect balance of gratitude, optimism and humor. She had the unique abilities to transform mundane tasks into fun, thoughts into poetry and life into living. Despite her quick stride, it must be said, that she would return twice as fast if ever you needed her. She was always true in life, though not too shy to "bend the rules" at a board or card game. With Donna's passing, we are all reminded of the blessing of family and the beauty of laughter. As she embraced her loved ones, so she did life.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., on Monday, September 30, at Oak Hill Cemetery, 2640 Glenridge Road, Escondido, CA 92027. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Elizabeth Hospice, 150 W. Crest St., Escondido, CA 92025, in honor of their compassionate care. (elizabethhospice.org) Arrangements are by Alhiser-Comer Mortuary.

Published in U-T San Diego on September 27, 2013 ~ The Des Moines Register Legacy, Des Moines, Iowa.