Steven Allen Baker

Steven Allen Baker, age 64, of Mankato, died Friday, April 28, 2023 surrounded by family at his home.

Funeral service will be held 11am, Saturday, May 13, 2023 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Mankato with visitation one hour prior. Private family burial will follow at Woodland Hills Memorial Park. Mankato Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements.

Steve was born September 6, 1958 in Mankato to Joseph and Viola (Schmidt) Baker. In his late 20s, he was involved in a car accident which left him paralyzed. Despite his disability, he remained resilient, positive, and quick to forgive. His physical limitations didn't stop him. In fact, Steve never took a handicapped spot because his wheelchair had a battery. One of his greatest strengths was his ability to connect with people and form meaningful relationships. He also had strong family values and took pride in caring for his children and grandchildren. Steve also enjoyed watching his nieces and nephews in sports and other activities. They always knew they could find Starbursts in a pouch on his wheelchair! At home, Steve enjoyed looking out the window and watching the birds, watching classic movies, and following Minnesota and college sports. Steve cared for the environment and prioritized reducing his imprint, whether it was reusing plastic bags, water bottles, or straws. He was a deeply faithful man and was a longtime member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Mankato. Steve never spoke bad of others. Instead, he would say, “It’s not our business. Say a prayer for them.”

He is survived by his significant other, Joan Martens; son, Steve Baker of La Crosse, WI; daughter, Trisha (Travis) Nelson of Mankato; grandchildren, Theodore “Sprout” Nelson and Tessa “Precious” Nelson; mother, Viola Baker of Runnells, IA; siblings, Joe Baker of Mankato, Bob (Lynn) Baker of North Mankato; Deborah (Dan) Degraff of Runnells, IA, Todd (Corin) Baker of Cape Charles, VA, and Tammy (Brent) Hall of Runnells, IA; and several nieces, nephews, and aunts.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Baker; maternal grandparents, Irene and Michael Schmidt; paternal grandparents, Michael and Margaret Baker; and aunts and uncles.