Bruce L. Baker, Sr.

Bruce Loyal Baker Sr., of McCammon, Idaho, passed away peacefully at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, love, and laughter.

Born on January 13, 1942, in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho, Bruce was the eldest of four children born to Harold Alfred Baker and Anna Lucil (Hall) Baker.

He grew up on the family’s ranch along Dempsey Creek, south of Lava Hot Springs, where he developed a strong work ethic. He attended Lava Elementary School and graduated from Marsh Valley High School.

Bruce proudly served his country in the United States Air Force beginning in April of 1961, and was stationed at Dyess Air Force Base in Texas before being honorably discharged. After his military service, he returned to Southeast Idaho, where he worked for Kraft Foods and later dedicated many years of service to the Union Pacific Railroad.

In 1967, Bruce married the love of his life, Peggy Lucille Bower of Chesterfield, Idaho, in Elko, Nevada. Prior to his marriage to Peggy he was married to Nina Bunn who he divorced. Peggy and Bruce’s union was filled with deep companionship, shared values, and devotion to their family. Together, they raised four children in Lava Hot Springs, eventually settling in McCammon after retirement. Peggy preceded Bruce in death in 2016.

Bruce had a passion for playing billiards, drumming in the local band, and reading anything he could get his hands on. Many in the community remember him selling firewood and Christmas trees, always ready for a friendly chat or to lend a helping hand. He also found great joy in fishing the nearby streams.

Bruce is survived by his sons, Sidney Baker of Kimberly, Idaho, and Wayne Baker of Pocatello, Idaho; his sister, Karma (Miles) Whiting of Lava Hot Springs; his brother, Rex (Peggy) Baker, also of Lava Hot Springs; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Peggy; his parents, Harold and Lucil Baker; his sister, Brenda Smith; his son, Bruce Loyal Baker Jr.; his daughter, Di Anna Lynne Baker; and nephews, Lance Baker and Norman Smith.

The Baker family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers who provided compassionate care during Bruce’s final stages of life.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025 from 6-8 pm at Wilks Funeral Home, 211 W. Chubbuck Rd. Chubbuck, ID 83202. A graveside service will be on Friday, August 1, 2025 at 11 am at the Lava Hot Springs Cemetery, Lava Hot Springs, ID.

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