WAYNE LOGAN “MONKEY” BAKER

Wayne “Monkey” Baker

Wayne Logan “Monkey” Baker, 83, of Columbia, Ill., died at 6:10 p.m. Jan. 6, 2021, at his residence.

He was born Feb. 21, 1937, in Rushville, a son of Earl and Edith Settles Baker. He married Maryellen Scholler on July 2, 1977.

Surviving are two sisters, Irene M. Green of Fairhope, Ala., and Evelyn V. Cleghorn of Marengo; four sons, Steve Studt, Robert Studt, Patrick Studt and Thomas Studt; and two grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by seven siblings, Vera L. (Baker) Raming, Harold V. Baker, Herman R. Baker, Ruth A. Baker, Martha J. (Baker) Woodruff, Hildreth A. Baker and Nellie A. Baker.

After graduating from Rushville High School, he became an aviation airplane mechanic for the Navy and then became a sky captain on the USS Ranger.

He worked for his brother Harold, who operated Lobemaster Field Flying School and Banner Towing.

After 35 years as an Engineer for Channel Four TV in St. Louis, Mo., he retired to spend time with family and friends.

A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday at Rushville City Cemetery with Rev. Aaron Baker officiating. Military Honors will be held by Schuyler American Legion Post #4 and a U.S. Navy Honors Detail. Burial will follow. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday. Worthington Funeral Home in Rushville is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to Schuyler American Legion Post #4.

Condolences may be sent to www.worthingtonfh.com.

Published in the Astoria South Fulton Argus on 1/13/2021