William H. Baker of Oak Park, age 88. Beloved husband of Ann, nee Velde; loving father of Elizabeth (David Lupo) Baker, Jennifer (Laura Angelucci) Baker and Kriste Baker; proud grandfather of Veronica (Jason) Winnell, Jamie Heneghan, Tricia Heneghan and Sydney Lupo; great-grandfather of Brody, Aubrey and Bryce; dear brother of Robert (Susie) Baker; fond uncle of many.

Bill was born and raised in Hyde Park, was a proud alum of Knox College, and a graduate of the University of Chicago Medical School. He met the love of his life, Ann, while attending Knox, and they enjoyed more than 65 years together in marriage. He served in Viet Nam at the 85th Evacuation Hospital. He was a distinguished surgeon and scholar, spending the majority of his career at Loyola. He enjoyed life with gusto and was equally happy in a tux with a fine glass of wine or in an old pair of pants with an MGD. He was a prolific reader. He loved photography, music, playing golf and tennis, riding his bike, telling corny jokes, and after retirement invested much time and energy into writing op-eds. He was a devoted husband, father, grandparent and friend who will be missed dearly by those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Knox College Baker-Velde Student Research Fund https://www.givecampus.com/campaigns/73724/donations/new , named to honor Ann and Bill's fathers, who were also Knox College alums.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 3:00 PM at the Oak Park Country Club, 2001 N. Thatcher, River Grove, with a reception to follow. Arrangements entrusted to the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home. For info 708-F-U-N-E-R-A-L.