Baker, Kenneth D., resting at peace, Friday, August 7, 2026.

Beloved husband for 56 years of Ruth E. Baker (nee Schlemper); cherished father of Damon L. (Buffy M.) Baker and Tiffany S. Baker; dear brother of Sheila (the late Charles) Frost; dear uncle, cousin, and friend to many.

With profound respect and deep gratitude, we honor the extraordinary life and service of a dedicated public servant who spent more than four decades shielding his community from harm. Following proudly in his father's footsteps, he turned a legacy of bravery into a distinguished career defined by leadership, selflessness, and unwavering devotion to others.

Over a career spanning more than 40 years, starting as a volunteer he served with distinction across the region, making an indelible mark on both West County EMS & Fire Protection District and the Rock Community Fire Protection District. He rose through the ranks through sheer work ethic, integrity and a deep compassion for the people he protected. At West County EMS & Fire, he provided steady guidance and operational excellence as Fire Chief. He later took that wealth of experience and visionary leadership to the Rock Community as Assistant Chief where he also served for 13 years as a member on the Board of Directors and most recently chairman.

To lead in the fire service requires courage; to lead for over four decades requires extraordinary character. As a Chief, he was not only a protector of the public but a guardian of his crew - a mentor who shaped generations of firefighters and ensured they returned home safely after every shift. His legacy lives on in every life he touched, every firefighter he trained, and the strong community foundation he helped build.

He leaves behind a loving family, a brotherhood of firefighters, and a community forever changed by his lifelong commitment to duty.

Services: Funeral from the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, 14960 Manchester Road at Holloway, Ballwin, Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. to St. John United Church of Christ, Manchester for 11:00 a.m. service. Interment St. John United Church of Christ Cemetery, Manchester. If desired, contributions may be made to The Backstoppers, Inc . Visitation Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. with a uniform member walk-through scheduled at 7:30 p.m. Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.