Leona Baker

LEONA MARGARET CAROLINE BAKER, 86, A DECORATED NAVY Master "Chief" Yeoman veteran died Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at Life Care Center of Casper, WY.
The "Chief" was born February 7, 1923 to A.C. and Bertha (Voights) Baker in Stanford, Montana. She grew up and attended schools in Stanford and graduated Stanford High School in 1941. She attended and graduated college from Northern Montana College in 1943 with an Associate degree in Elementary Education. Chief then joined the Navy in February, 1944 and served an honorable 22 years. She was the first woman of three to receive Master Chief Rank in December, 1961. Chief served in Virginia, Hawaii and San Diego, CA as well as 2 years at sea and officially retired in August, 1965. Upon retiring, Chief enjoyed golfing, volunteering with many organizations, as well as held season tickets to several pro sports teams. Her passion was supporting and encouraging higher education.
Chief never married, and has one surviving brother, Dean (Jerrie Thatcher) Baker of Lewistown,
MT. However, she also has many surviving Nieces and Nephews, as well as great-Nieces and
great Nephews whom were all very special to her. And a very dear life-long friend and college roommate
Agnes Woldtvedt of Oilmont, MT.
.
Ms. Baker's memorial service and internment will take place in Stanford, Montana at 1st Presbyterian Church April 4, 2009 at 11:00 AM. Cremation has taken place at Newcomer's Funeral and Crematory, Casper, WY.