LaVonne Baker

LaVonne "Vonnie" Doreen Baker, age 94, of Fergus Falls, died Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at Sanford Medical Center in Fargo surrounded by family

Born on August 18, 1930, Vonnie was the daughter of Arthur & LaVella (Forde) Anderson, (later step-mother Inga Anderson), and grew up on the farm alongside her siblings: Arland (Bud), Darol, Donna Lou, Diane & Paul.

Vonnie lived a life rich with joy, laughter, and love. In 1950, she married the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Arthur Baker, with whom she shared nearly 70 wonderful years before his passing in 2019. Together they built a home full of warmth, hospitality, and unforgettable stories.

As a young woman, Vonnie worked full time at the Fergus Falls Clinic and later Lake Region Hospital (proudly achieving her certification as a Radiology Technologist). She juggled working full time while raising her four busy children and their wild array of pets. At home, Vonnie enjoyed hosting and feeding a crowd.

She especially treasured babies and children. Her grandchildren remember her as an epic gramma who loved spending time with them, as well as happily sharing treats from her generous candy drawer with them and all the neighborhood children. They will dearly miss her loving, soothing presence.

Vonnie found joy in the simple pleasures of life-traveling, tending to her garden, sharing laughs and socializing with dear friends at the Viking Cafe. She and Bob could often be found out at Elk's Point, lending a hand at the regular Friday Fish Fry. A spirited and social soul, Vonnie never met a stranger she didn't charm with her wit and warmth.

Vonnie and Bob were longtime residents of Fergus Falls, Minnesota. Vonnie served on the Fire Department Auxiliary, was an active member and volunteer at First Lutheran Church and was often ready with a casserole and a visit to friends or neighbors in need. She was close to many in the community, and their home was always open to family, friends, and neighbors.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Art, Lavella, and Inga Anderson; her husband, Bob Baker, and siblings, Bud, Darol; Donna Lou Anderson, and many other in-laws and loved ones.

Vonnie is survived by her children: Tracy Gullickson of Butler, PA, Richard (Nettie) Baker of Fergus Falls, Donn Baker of Fergus Falls, and Michael (Kathryn) Baker of St. Cloud; her sister Diane Prischmann; brother Paul (Diane) Anderson, and sister-in-law Allegra Anderson. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren: Trina Dart, Mindy (Trevor Hirst) Baker, Jason (Jessica) Gullickson, Ross (Misty) Baker, Anna (Rob Morris) Gullickson, Kari Boen, and Shelly Boen; and a delighted great-grandmother to many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Vonnie leaves behind a family who adored her and a community that will long remember her vibrant spirit. Please raise a glass in her honor and share a memory with someone you love.

Memorials preferred to First Lutheran Church, PioneerCare, Oak Grove Cemetery, or organization of choice. The family sends a special thank you to the caregivers and staff of PioneerCare.

Funeral Service: 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at First Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service at the church.

Clergy: Reverend Nancy Eldredge Hess

Interment: Oak Grove Cemetery, Fergus Falls, Minnesota

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com