Marilyn Sue Baker

Marilyn Sue Baker, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of the Van Buren community, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the University Nursing Center in Upland. She was 90 years old. Born on March 2, 1936, in Dunkirk, Indiana, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Ruby Reasen. Marilyn's life was a rich tapestry woven with love, family, and service to others.

A proud graduate of Van Buren High School, class of 1954, Marilyn embarked on a life journey filled with devotion and resilience. She married her high school sweetheart, Howard "Dean" Baker, on September 1, 1955. Together, they created a loving home and shared many beautiful memories until Dean's passing on October 14, 2024.

Marilyn devoted 19 years to nurturing young minds as a lunch lady at Eastbrook Community Schools, where her kindness and compassion left an indelible mark on the hearts of countless students. Additionally, she brought joy to the community as co-owner of The Other Place in Van Buren for 15 years. A faithful member of the Van Buren United Methodist Church, Marilyn was particularly passionate about her work in the clown ministry, God's Happy Helpers, for a decade, spreading laughter and joy wherever she went.

Marilyn's life was enriched by her fondness for crocheting, reading Amish literature, and enjoying the beauty of nature-whether she was watching birds, admiring her flowers, or hosting delightful tea parties. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren, who will always hold her memory close to their hearts.

Marilyn is survived by her daughters, Vickie (Dave) King and Deana (Tommy) St. John; brother, Rodney Reasen; sister-in-law, Joan Baker; grandchildren, Tim (Jennifer) Bishop, Katura Bishop, Chris (Andrea) Shively, Chad Shively, Courtney (Tyler) Seats, and Clay King; 17 great-grandchildren; and special friends, Deb and Bart Humphries and Ken and Mary McCollum.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Ruby Reasen, brother, Carl Reasen, and grandson, Scott Bishop.

Arrangements for Marilyn have been entrusted to the College Park Chapel of Armes-Hunt Life Celebration Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 4601 South Western Avenue, Marion, Indiana 46953, where a visitation will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Tony Miner officiating. Burial will take place at Van Buren Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to University Nursing Center.