James G. Baker, age 79 of Manistee, MI died peacefully Thursday evening September 21, 2017 at The Homesteader in Benzonia, MI.

He was born August 27, 1938 in Manistee and was the son of the late Henry & Selma (Bauchan) Baker. Jim was a graduate of Manistee High School with the Class of 1956. He received his Bachelor's degree from Central Michigan University in 1964 and earned his Master's degree from Northern Arizona University in 1970. His post graduate studies included the University of Colorado, University of Missouri, Rhode Island College, Western Michigan University, Central Michigan University and West Shore Community College. Jim traveled to 42 states and 27 countries. Jim taught Industrial Education and Driver's Education. He also coached various sports at Caseville Public School and Manistee High School where he retired from. He was a member of the Michigan Industrial Education Society and spent 10 years as Region #13 Industrial Education Director. He served on the Board of Directors at Memorial Hospital in Onekama, MI and the Manistee Township Planning Commission. Jim was a dedicated teacher and coach. He was also devoted to his faith. He was a Sunday School Superintendent at St. Peter's Lutheran Church and was involved with Bible Studies. He was currently a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Manistee.  He enjoyed fishing and loved wood -working building projects as well as working in his yard. He was a sweet and gentle soul. He impacted many lives through his commitment to education and convictions of his faith. Jim married Susan P. Gillingham on July 24, 1976 in Onekama, MI.

Jim is survived by his wife Susan Baker of Manistee; his brother & sister-in-law, Richard & Linda Baker of Manistee, MI; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Mike & Sherry Gillingham and his sister-in-law, Janet Gillingham. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Robert Baker and Charles Baker; his mother and father-in-law, Weston & Lavern Gillingham and a brother-in-law, Kent Gillingham.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, September 30, 2017 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Manistee with Rev. Kevin McClain officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery also in Manistee. The family will be at the church one hour prior to time of service to receive friends.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to express their sympathies are asked to consider a memorial contribution in Jim's name to The Homesteader of 7953 Love Rd. Benzonia, MI 49616, where Jim received exceptional care or the Manistee Historical Museum. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home and also at the church on Saturday.

The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.