Donna M. Baker

Donna M. Baker, age 69 of Batesville, died Friday, March 25, 2011 at the Heritage House in Greensburg. Born July 31, 1941 in Batesville, she is the daughter of Dorothy (Nee: Stern) and Edward Schmidt. She married Charles Baker December 29, 1961 at Brookville and he preceded her in death February 2, 2008. Donna was a press operator for Batesville Casket Company 18 years and along with her husband, owner of Chuck’s Hideaway Bar for 12 years. She was a member of the Prell-Bland American Legion Post #271 Ladies Auxiliary and the Eagles Aerie #1130 Ladies Auxiliary. The words to best describe Donna would be nurturing, motherly and caregiver. Her family talked about her willingness to assist anyone whether they needed help, care and kind words to lift their spirits. While her children were growing up, Donnas’ house was where all the neighbor kids hung out and played, becoming a second mom to many of them. She was the type of individual who never met a stranger and of course for those that knew her, know she had a playful ornery streak in her. Some of her interests included working crossword puzzles, listening to country music and watching game shows. To say she loved animals would be an understatement. Two or four legs, fur, feathers or hide, she’s had them all as a pet at one time or another. She and Chuck enjoyed spending time together outdoors fishing, riding motorcycles, quad runners or boating. Donna was also a determined, independent woman. The worst thing you could do was to tell her there was something she couldn’t do because she would prove you wrong. An accomplished archer and shooter, she competed against men with a bow as well as a rifle, often beating them. Her family indicated that for all of her abilities cooking was not one of them.She is survived by her daughter Lori Jewell of Batesville; sons Tracy Baker of Harrison, Ohio, Scott Lyle of Metamora and six grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband and parents. Visitation is Tuesday, March 29th, from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral services are 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 30th at St. Louis Church with burial in Cupps Chapel Cemetery. The family requests memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Donna M. Baker

March 25, 1942 - March 25, 2011