Kathelene Willis Baker

Kathelene (Kathy) Baker passed away on November 22, 2024, joining her beloved husband, Willard (Bink) Baker, in heaven. Together, Kathy and Bink shared 42 years of love and memories.

Born in Norfolk, Virginia, on August 14, 1947, Kathy grew up in a military family and lived in several places during her childhood, including Louisiana and Alaska. She graduated from Wasilla High School in Wasilla, Alaska, and often spoke fondly of those two places as her favorites.

At 19, Kathy married her first husband and at 22 years old, she became a mother to her first daughter, Brenda. After the marriage ended, she and Brenda moved to Sundance, Wyoming, where Kathy met and married Willard. Their connection was undeniable, and a few years later, they welcomed their second daughter, Sheri, completing their family. Kathy and Willard raised their two daughters in Upton and Lusk, Wyoming, before Kathy’s heart was further filled with the joy of being a grandmother to Chayci and Braylee. Her granddaughters were the light of her life, and Kathy took great pride in being an integral part of their lives. Known as "Grandma Kathy" to many, she had a special way of making everyone feel loved, regardless of blood ties.

Kathy’s career was dedicated to service, and her proudest role was with the Wyoming Department of Corrections. She started at the Wyoming Women’s Prison in Lusk, where she was promoted to Corporal. Kathy then transferred to the Wyoming Honor Farm in Riverton to be closer to her granddaughters, where she eventually became Sergeant, earning respect as a leader and mentor. After retiring, Kathy enjoyed spending more time with family and friends.

Those who knew Kathy admired her kindness, independence, unwavering work ethic, undying will, strength, and her love of life.  She had a compassionate heart, and magnetic charisma filled with humor, loyalty, and love for others. Outside of family, Kathy enjoyed swimming, dancing, reading, being a member of the Elks, participating in her church activities, making beautiful jewelry, and participating in activities at the senior center. 

Kathy is survived by her daughters, Brenda Baker (Ron Besso), and Sheri Russell (husband Bill); her granddaughters, Chayci Mellon (husband Kameron) and Braylee Russell (fiancé Nick Schow); her sisters, Daisy (Sis) Greening, Louise Fontenot, and Pat Mollenbrink; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Her memory will continue to live on through the family and friends who loved her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Daizel Coffey; her father, Arthur Coffey; her brothers, Sunny Coffey and Sam Coffey; her sisters, Ruth (Zora) Fruge and Lorretta Keefer; and her husband, Willard (Bink) Baker. 

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near.” – Unknown

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church. A Reception will be held at The Eagles where a potluck lunch and dance will be held in her honor following the service. All who loved Kathy are invited to join her family as they dance the night away in her memory.