Richard "Dick" Baker

Richard Dean Baker, “just call me Dick,” was born in Cherokee on August 7, 1951, the second child born to Robert and Marie Baker. Dick’s father was a career military officer, flying and fighting in multiple wars for the Air Force. Dick was born with Down’s Syndrome and at the age of three was placed at Woodward State Hospital so he could avoid repeated relocation and receive the proper care.

Dick resided at Woodward until moving to the Cherry House in Cherokee in February of 1983. Dick quickly became a part of the community building a life of work, leisure and worship. His first move in town was to join the Cherokee County Work Activity Center where it soon became apparent that Dick had many skills. Over the years Dick worked part-time for many Cherokee businesses including Pizza Hut, American Theater, Video Warehouse, The Gasthaus, and Godfather’s Pizza. This was on top of his job at Work Services where he rebuilt pallets, deburred ports, and salvaged meters, among other tasks. Often praised for a job well done, Dick would often reply ‘I’m a man!” or “You got it!”

Dick thrived in Cherokee, eventually moving into his own apartment and then to a small house with a roommate and a dog. Dick was an active member of the Church of Christ where he and Pastor Tom Lewis became good friends. Dick proudly volunteered to set up communion at weekly services, which he rarely missed. Dick remained active at church throughout his life attending until he was physically unable to do so.

Dick was very athletic and loved all sports. He loved to swim and became a terrific bowler, enjoying both sports for many years. Dick also participated in Special Olympics medaling in various track and field events. He was an avid sports fan as well, cheering for the Hawkeyes and Cyclones over the years, as well as many pro teams across all sports.

In 1997, Dick was reunited with his family, blessing him with five siblings Susie Fancher, Bob (Joni) Baker, Cindy (Drew) Bearden, Linda (Tommy) Podlaski and Jeff (Kim) Baker. He was the proud Uncle to four nieces and three nephews. Dick and the family embraced the reunion leading to family gatherings in Largo, FL, Atlanta, Tallahassee and Nashville for holidays, birthdays and a wedding. In 2012, Dick and family traveled to Washington D.C. for his mother’s funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery where she was laid to rest next to his father

Dick looked forward to his family visiting Cherokee each year for his birthday. They would attend the local attractions such as the Marcus Fair, the Woodbury County Fair, and Sioux City Explorers games, among others. These trips often included a bowling outing where all family members bowled using a pro wrestler name. Stone Cold was always Dick’s choice, as he only wanted to be a “good guy”. There were also multiple, milestone birthday parties at the Cherokee Community Center and Spring Lake Park with all his friends. Dick loved music, dancing and sensationally impersonated “Elvis” at the annual Halloween Dances held by Cherokee Work Services.

Dick had a zest for life and was committed to success. When he didn’t get something right the first time, he would work until he reached the outcome he was striving for. Dick loved to have fun, and his antics would serve as a reminder to not take ourselves too seriously. Dick knew no stranger! Everyone was a friend who he greeted with a hug and a smile. Two of his very best friends were Carrie Smeltzer and Jan Wieland, both who grew to become Dick’s local “family”, loving and caring for him throughout his life in Cherokee.

Dick’s ability to adapt to the curves of life allowed him to live a full and happy life. His positive outlook, always seeing his cup as half full rather than half empty, serves as an important reminder for everyone.

Dick passed away on Tuesday, April 2,2026, at the age of 74. Dick was loved by many and will be missed by many. He will be lovingly remembered by his family and many friends in Cherokee and across Iowa. God Bless You, Dick!

Funeral services for Dick will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Church of Christ in Cherokee, Iowa. Pastor David Hall will officiate. Visitation with the family present will begin one hour prior to service time beginning at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in the Oak Hill Cemetery at Cherokee, Iowa. The Boothby Funeral Home of Cherokee, Iowa is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.boothbyfuneral.com.