Marion Eva Baker

Marion Eva Baker passed peacefully in the company of loved ones on November 3rd, 2024, at the age of 95. She was born on July 22nd, 1929, in Colebrook New Hampshire. The first of seven children was born to Keene and Eva Frick. In 1945, seeking a better life, the family packed up their car and drove across the country to settle in Oregon. After a time spent moving around following the crop picking they eventually purchased and worked in a small farm in Forest Grove.
After graduating from high school, she entered the working world with the goal of having a career. She married Jack Potterf and in 1954 they welcomed their only son Gary who preceded her in death in August 2019.
In the mid-1960s she and Gary moved to the Salem area and began working for the state of Oregon public utility Commission where she spent the rest of her working days until retirement.
Once settled in the area she met and married William (Bill) Baker, they were married nearly 40 years residing in independence where she continued to live after his passing in 2007.
Much to her delight with her marriage to Bill she welcomed his two daughters Patty and Karen. She also found much love and joy being known as "Grammie" as the grandchildren and great grandchildren were added to the family. After retirement she was able to devote her time to hobbies and other interests. She was a natural caregiver and along with caring for family members and friends she also spent several years as a volunteer for Hospice.
She loved painting ceramics and one of her favorite projects was painting Santa clauses from around the world and researching the history and traditions from each country. She had display cabinets full of Santa's in her home. Sharing her love of the ceramics with others she opened a small shop called "The ceramic barn" where she taught different painting techniques to others. She had many wonderful decades long friendships with the people that came to her shop.
She also loved spending time in her yard and even at 95 could be seen weeding, planting or pruning. In 2008 she welcomed the companionship and eventual marriage to Lloyd Coffman. They spent many wonderful years traveling, seeing the sights and exploring on their driving trips around the country. Marion is survived by her husband Lloyd and her only remaining sibling Sue Wright of independence along with many children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
At her request no services will be held. Her internment will be at Fir Crest cemetery in Monmouth, OR. Farnstrom Mortuary Is handling the arrangements. If one wishes to make a contribution in her memory, please do so to Polk County fire district one. She always spoke highly of them and was very appreciative of their help during her son Gary's illness.
A lifelong goal for Marion was to be a kind and nurturing person. There are many people who will remember her for those qualities and more. She will be dearly missed.