Ruby M. Baker, 81

Ruby M. Baker, 81, passed away on Friday, Feb. 4, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. She was born on Dec. 28, 1923, at Richville, Minn., the daughter of Willard Austin and Lillian M. (Barnes) Jensen.

Ruby Baker was an impressive woman! She was easily recognized by her flaming red hair, straight stance and high-heeled shoes as she walked between her jobs at Rosauer's, Gamer's Shoes and her home at Big Sky Manor and Syke's.

Ruby was strong and opinionated. Pity the poor salesperson that came to her door selling goods or philosophies. Even in her passing on at Kalispell Regional Hospital she made certain her decisions were followed.

Above all, Ruby was a strong mother. She protected her children with the ferocity of a lioness when needed, but gave them the strength and self-confidence to follow their own path. She nurtured her many plants with that same solid love.

Ruby was preceded in death by two sons, Steve Hughes and Tim Norcross; a granddaughter, Tammy Wolf; and son-in-law, Robin Wolf.

She is survived by two daughters, Susan Shapiro of California, and Vickie Good and husband, Bill; one son, Rocky Hughes, and friend, Barbara Lockhart; and a large extended family in Kalispell.

Memorial services for Ruby M. Baker will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11, at Johnson Mortuary Chapel. A pie and coffee get-together will take place at Syke's immediately following the service.

The family suggests memorials be sent to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Johnson Mortuary & Crematory.