Lillian K. Baker

Lillian Kathryn Baker, 86, of Rochester, MN went to be with our Lord and Savior on December 24, 2018, as a consequence of heart failure. Over the course of her life, Lillian was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, neighbor and friend. She was first and foremost a believer in Christ and lived every day with her eyes to Heaven. Lillian loved the Lord, her faith, and her family with all her heart and soul. She was born to Abraham and Julia (Karvonen) Homola on May 15, 1932 in Gackle, ND and graduated from Dakota Business College in Fargo. She worked at General Mills as an Executive Secretary prior to meeting her future husband, Richard J. Baker. They married on November 24, 1960 in Minneapolis and lived there as well as in Villa Park, IL and Hopkins, MN prior to moving to Rochester in 1972. Lillian remained busy as a homemaker and mother to Terrance L. Baker, Jeffrey J. Baker and Julie A. Baker. Lillian and Richard were happily married until his death on December 20, 1994. Health permitting, Lillian was very active in the Autumn Ridge Church community and lived life to the fullest, enjoying the companionship of her children, grandchildren and grand-pets. Most importantly, she lived a prayerful and spiritual life and consistently prioritized the needs of others. Toward the end of her days, she spoke more and more frequently about yearning to go home, to be with her Lord and with those who preceded her. In addition to her husband, Lillian was preceded in death by her mother Julia (Karvonen) Homola, her father Abraham Homola and her sister Hillian Homola. Lillian is survived by her two sons, Terrance L. of Blooming Prairie, MN and Jeffrey J. of Lakeville, MN; her daughter, Julie A. of Minneapolis; eight grandchildren; and two sisters, Yvonne (Mrs. Terry) Robinson of Howard Lake, MN and Angeline Homola of Rochester. Visitation will be held at Ranfranz & Vine Funeral Home in Rochester on Saturday, December 29 starting at 10 am, followed by a celebration of her life at 11 am. Presiding will be Pastor Karen Foster from Autumn Ridge Church. Interment will take place immediately following the service at Pleasant Prairie Cemetery, followed by luncheon at the funeral home. Lillian's family would like to thank God for the gift of Lillian and for the love and support we have received this week. Memorials are suggested to Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch in Stewartville, MN or to the American Heart Association. Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW Rochester, MN 55901 (507) 289-3600 www.ranfranzandvinefh.com