Russell Baker

Russell L. Baker, 86, of Mechanicsburg, PA, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2015 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Mechanicsburg, PA on July 14, 1928 to the late Frank L. and Myrtle I. Coller Baker and was predeceased by his brother, Fred Baker.

Russell retired from the PA State Correctional Institution in Camp Hill and formerly worked for Harrisburg Dairies and Potts Manufacturing. He served in the Air Force during the Korean War. Always active in the community, he joined the Washington Fire Company in 1945, served as president, vice president, and was on the house committee. Russ also served on the Mechanicsburg Borough Council and was a member of the planning commission. Other memberships included: life member of the Mechanicsburg Club, the Mechanicsburg Museum Association, the Cumberland County Historical Society, the Cumberland County Fireman’s Association and was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Mechanicsburg. Russ enjoyed going to auctions and collecting antiques, especially Mechanicsburg memorabilia.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Janet Shell Baker and his sons, Rick S. (Nancy) Baker of Lewisville, NC and Kirk W. Baker of Mechanicsburg. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Crissy (Shane) Baker Kumler and Katherine, Michael, Elizabeth and Nicholas Baker and two great grandchildren, Ian and Landon Kumler

Services will be held on Friday, March 6, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the Malpezzi Funeral Home, 8 Market Plaza Way, Mechanicsburg, 17055 with Rev. David Reed officiating. There will be a visitation from 12:00 noon until the time of services. The family is hosting a luncheon buffet immediately following the service (3:00PM) in the fellowship hall at the First United Methodist Church, 135 W. Simpson St., Mech. All service attendees are invited to attend. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are being handled by the Hollinger Funeral Home, Mt. Holly Springs, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Central PA, 1320 Linglestown Rd., Harrisburg, PA 17110, or the Washington Fire Company, 53 East Main St., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 or the First United Methodist Church, 135 W. Simpson St., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055. Online condolences may be made at www.hollingerfuneralhome.com