Gertrude H. Spears Baker

Gertrude Baker, age 97, passed away at her home in Appleton on Sunday, March 29, 2009. Trudy was born near LaCrosse on March 8, 1912, daughter of the late August and Stella (Basch) Fregin. As a young woman, she taught elementary school, and later married William Spears; Bill preceded her in death in 1970. Later, Trudy married William Baker; he preceded her in death in 1993. Trudy was an active member of the Fox Valley Symphony League and once served as its president and also was very involved with the Infant Welfare Circle. She enjoyed golf, and the many friends she made through her membership at the Riverview Country Club in Appleton. All who knew Trudy will remember how she loved caring for her home, her yard, and her garden.

She is survived by Bill Baker's son: Jim (Mary) Baker of Delafield and their family, as well as several in-laws and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside prayer service for Trudy will be held at 12:00 Noon on Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at Oak Grove Cemetery, 1407 LaCrosse Street in LaCrosse.

The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at Home Instead Caregivers – you allowed Trudy to be comfortable and to stay in her own surroundings. Thank you all so much for everything you have done.

Memorials may be directed to the Fox Valley Symphony or the William and Betsy Baker Scholarship Fund at Central High School in LaCrosse.

Wichmann Funeral Home
537 N. Superior Street
Appleton, WI 54911
920 739-1231