Ellen Lydia Baker, 59

Ellen Lydia Baker was born on Sept. 4, 1947, in Allentown, Pa., to Ralph and Olga Schwarz. She was the oldest sibling and had two brothers, Michael and Ralph Steven. She attended elementary and secondary school in Kalispell and graduated from Flathead High School in 1965.

Following her graduation from high school, Ellen moved to Spokane and studied in a dental assistant training program.

She married Rocky Steven Baker on Sept. 2, 1967.

In 1974, she gave birth to her daughter, Alex Hilary Baker-Campbell, followed by her son, Peter Nathaniel Baker, in 1977.

Ellen was a loving daughter, sister, wife and mother and found great joy in raising her family.

Ellen began her work career as a dental assistant. After her children were born, she felt blessed to have been able to be a stay-at-home mom for many years. Once Alex and Peter got older, Ellen worked as an educator for more than 15 years at Kalispell Montessori School. During that time she touched many students' and families' lives with her gentle and caring spirit. She was known for her wonderful field trips, camping trips, summer camps, and skills as a teacher.

Ellen was a craft-maker and brightened many lives with her creations. Her yard was filled with many flowers, as she loved to "dig in the dirt" and care for things as they grew.

She enjoyed time with her community of friends doing yoga, going for long walks, being a 'bookie' with her book circle, and spending Sundays with her mom going to church and exploring the valley. Ellen's presence and love will long be remembered in the communities she belonged to.

From the beginning of her illness, Ellen received loving attention and devoted care from her husband. She found solace in their long drives and reflecting on past memories. She passed away on the morning of June 30, 2007, with her husband at her side. She will always be remembered as an unconditionally kind, loving, positive and selfless woman.

Please join us for a celebration of Ellen's life at 1 p.m. Friday, July 6, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church. A reception will follow at the Willow Glen Kalispell Montessori School campus. In the words of Ellen, "Bless your heart."