Doran Alvin Baker

Doran Alvin Baker, 95, of Louisville, Kentucky passed away peacefully with his family by his side on May 18, 2025.

Doran grew up in Ohio and spent his childhood on a farm in the summers and Florida in the winter. He and his brother were very close and called each other "Mo". They were 3 years, 3 months, and 13 days apart, and he knew that by heart and often said it. He met his wife, Norma Jean Petty, in Elmhurst, Illinois at work and they were engaged and married after 4 months. They had 3 children and lived in the Chicago suburbs while raising them. He was an Insurance Salesman by trade but also drove a truck. Later in his life he moved to Sherman, Texas, where he met Betty Martin. They spent over 25 years together on her ranch raising cattle. When he was 83 he decided to start a stump grinding business. He hired Betty for $10 an hour to help him, she would bring a chair, pack a lunch, and ask for a raise. At 90 he decided it was time to retire; those were his best years as he always missed living on a farm and deeply loved Betty. He had a passion for dance and was always trying to teach someone the Waltz. He also enjoyed square dancing, and he never met a stranger. When Norma, his first wife, became ill he broke chains in Texas and came to be with her and their children in her last days.

He is preceded in by his parents, Serge and Helen Baker; brother, Howard Baker; and his first wife, Norma Baker.

Doran is survived by his children, Debbie Evans (Cary), Mark Baker (Debbie), and Vicky Baker (Rob); the love of his life, Betty Martin; grandchildren, Jason Gander (Anna), Rob Beahl (Priscilla), Randal Baker (Ansley), and Eric Baker (Emma); 11 great grandchildren; and one great great grandchild, whom he cherished.

Doran will be laid to rest at Kentucky Veteran Cemetery Central in Radcliff, KY. A committal service with military honors will take place at 9:30 am on Thursday, May 22, 2025 at the cemetery.