Joseph Edward Baker, 77, of Rago, KS, passed away Saturday, March 14, 2020, at Via Christi St. Francis in Wichita, KS.  Born January 26, 1943, in Anthony, KS, he was the son of Nicholas Boone and Gwendolyn Breman (Woods) Baker of Wilmore, KS.

Joe spent his early years in Greensburg, KS, Hardtner, KS, and Medicine Lodge, KS.  He graduated from Medicine Lodge High School in 1961, Arkansas City Junior College in 1963, and he received a bachelor's degree in psychology from Wichita State University in 1970.  Joe was a roofing contractor in Wichita for 35 years, including as owner of Baker Roofing Co. and later of Professional Roof Consultants.  He served on the Board of Directors of the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association and was a life-time member of the W.S.U. Alumni Association.  Joe was a veteran, serving in the U.S. Army from 1964-1968, as a member of the Army Security Agency.

On June 10, 1972, Joe married Cheryl Autry of Wichita, KS.  She survives.

He is survived by his wife: Cheryl Baker of Rago, KS; one daughter: Cyndi Nelson of Pratt, KS; seven grandchildren: Josh Nelson, Mallary Nelson, Jared Nelson, Jake Nelson, Keaton Baker, McKenzie Baker, and Zackary Baker; and one great-grandchild: Tyson Nelson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son: Nicholas Joe Baker; and one sister: Cherry Ann Smith.

Funeral service is at 2:00 p.m., Friday, March 20, 2020, at Hatfield-Prusa Funeral Home, Coldwater, KS, with Pastor Virgil White presiding.

Burial will follow the funeral service at Wilmore Cemetery in Wilmore, KS.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to First Southern Baptist Church of Pratt, KS in care of Hatfield-Prusa Funeral Home, P.O. Box 417, Coldwater, KS 67029.