Obituary of Mary Evelyn Baker

Mary Evelyn Baker, 89 of Bedford died peacefully at home on Sunday, July 24, 2016. Born on July 11, 1927 in Oil City, PA, she was the daughter of the late Herbert O. and Irene Flora Baker. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by two sisters, Irene Scaglione, Anne Clark, and one brother, Ernest Baker. She attended St. Joseph High School and graduated in 1945. After graduating high school, she completed nurses training at Warren State Hospital. She then enlisted in U. S. Navy Waves (1949 - 1952) and was stationed in Jacksonville, Florida serving as a radio operator. Mary was then recruited in the U. S. Department of State Foreign Services. She was assigned to U. S. Diplomatic posts in the Phillipines, Vietnam, France & Eastern North Africa (Saudi Arabia) After leaving the U. S. Foreign Services, Mary entered civil services with the General Services Administration in Washington, DC. She retired from the U. S. Government in 1979 as a G. S. A. Management Specialist. Mary discovered beautiful Bedford, VA and made her home there while enjoying all forms of arts and crafts. She was always busy; golfing, gardening, taking classes and caring for her beloved canines, Zoe, Zeta and Josie. These were much quieter days than her earlier years when she enjoyed white water rafting, parachuting, hot air balloons, snow skiing throughout Europe and glider rides. She is a member of Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church in Bedford. She is survived by her wonderful friend of many years, Marian Guckert; a brother, Robert Baker of Oil City, PA and numerous nieces, nephews & friends. Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Mary to Bedford or the Venango County Humane Societies or to Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church. To honor Mary's expressed wishes there will be no funeral and private burial arrangements. From a small Pennsylvania town to world traveler, Mary is now all the way home. Bon Voyage little girl!! Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.