Dennis Lee Baker: Every Day’s a Holiday and Every Meal’s a Feast

This section includes both obituaries and memories. Honoring our loved ones who have died does not end immediately after their passing. We recognize that… so we’re extending our obituary section to include individuals who may have left a long time ago. If you want to remember someone who is gone, either recently or longer ago, please send a photo and a few sentences to [email protected]. Tell us why you would like to honor the person–is it their birthday, the date of their passing or some other date of significance to you. Dennis Lee Baker

Dennis Lee Baker

Dennis was born on July 23, 1946 and took his place in Heaven on November 9, 2016 after an extended illness.

Dennis was born in Taft, California where most of his family is from. He graduated from high school in Salinas, California. Immediately after high school Dennis joined the Marines and served our country for 13 years in Vietnam, the United States & several other parts of the world. Dennis was a Gunny Sergeant while serving in the USMC and he continued to be one in civilian life as well. Dennis was a kind-hearted, caring man. He was known for helping others. If he saw a homeless Vet Dennis always took time to talk to them and give them $20 even when he really couldn’t afford to.

Dennis was honored with many awards including: The Good Conduct Medal, Expert Rifle & Pistol Badge and attended many Marine Corp schools. Dennis was always a proud Marine. He always made sure his flags were waving on every Patriotic occasion.

Dennis moved to Humboldt County from Texas in the late 70’s and always considered this beautiful place “home”. He worked the land and was a finished carpenter. He really enjoyed working with wood. Dennis loved his family, his country, and his friends. He had great times cooking steak for the VFW in Texas & California and barbecuing lemon chicken in the backyard then playing cards. He always got the Queen of Hearts or Aces on the River! At one point, during the 90’s we all called him “The Mayor of Miranda” and if you knew Dennis you know why.

Christine and family would like to thank all the doctors & health care practitioners at Redwoods Rural, UCSF and all the other medical facilities for their wonderful care of Dennis. Thank you Miranda Fire Dept. and Medics for showing up at all hours of the day and night to help Dennis. You were always a welcome sight to see.

Dennis was preceded in death by too many family members to list.

Dennis is survived by his wife of 22 years, Christine (Chrissy) Ribelin Baker. Loving daughters Kristle Gallegos & husband Chuck of Bakersfield, Calif. and Shannyn Hering of Miranda, Calif. Stepsons Jason Stiles & wife Nikki, Travis Stiles & wife Brandy, Phil Stiles and girlfriend Trisha Picco all of Bakersfield and Heath Ribelin & wife Stephanie of Whittier, Ca. Thirteen (13) wonderful grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Plus many friends near and far.

Our family is so proud of Dennis. There will never be another one like him.
He is terribly missed. A celebration of Life to Honor Dennis will be held at a later date. Watch for date and time and join us to toast Dennis with a shot of Crown.

And as Dennis always said:

“Every day’s a Holiday and Every Meal’s a Feast”

Loving FamilyFamily group shot of Dennis Lee Baker

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Martin's
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Martin's
7 years ago

RIP our dear friend.

G-MAS
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G-MAS
7 years ago

Beautiful family portrait. R.i.p

Jim & Karen Dillon
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Jim & Karen Dillon
7 years ago

A good man. Love and prayers to the family.

Kathleen Hire
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Kathleen Hire
7 years ago

A wonderful article and great family picture. Sadly we only got to know Dennis for the last few years of his life, but he and Chrissy were always some of our favorite people to see; warm hosts, great cooks, fun card players and just all around wonderful folks. Dennis, may you rest in peace. Chrissy, we are looking forward to seeing you at Dennis’ celebration of life later this year.

Shannyn Hering
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Shannyn Hering
7 years ago

Always in my heart, love you and miss you everyday