Dr. William Kendrick Baker "Kenny" Obituary (1950 - 2023)

Age 72, of St. Louis Park, MN passed away on March 3, 2023. He was born December 11, 1950, to Joseph and Cora (Whitehurst) Baker. Our father was born and raised in Gary, Indiana. He graduated from Froebel High School in 1968 at the age of 17 and attended Indiana University where he played basketball. He married Pamela (Hill) Baker on March 14, 1970. He completed a PhD is theology. His exploration of religion led him to move his wife and four children to Jerusalem, Israel. While in Israel, he and his wife had 3 daughters in the Old City of Jerusalem. He returned to the United States in 1978. In 1986, he and his wife moved their family to Minneapolis, Minnesota in search of a better life and more opportunity. Preceded in death by parents, Joseph and Cora (Whitehurst) Baker, siblings, David Baker, Denise Michele (Baker) Harrison, Dr. Joseph Carlton Baker, grandson, Timothy Ryan Harper, and granddaughter, Ashlee DeMonica Goines. He leaves many to cherish his memory: seven devoted children: Kenneth Ray Hill, Dr. Maulah Halley, Kimberly Stubblefield (Arlando), Levi Baker, Laverne Baker, Grace (Khana) Baker, and Elibah Baker. Fourteen loving grandchildren: Chris Goines, Britney Clark, DeJareé Goines, Dionté Goines, Darrius Baker, Isaiah Baker, Symone Hill, Olivia Petersen, Jordan Baker, Kyanna Hill, Brooklyn Stubblefield, Shahaa Hill, Gabrielle Gray, & Kendal Stubblefield. Six special great-grandchildren: Aleia Baker, Christina Goines, A’Lajeia Baker, I’Vonte Baker, Xylen Baker, Tey’Onna Goines, and one on the way. One very special uncle: Dr. Virgil Whitehurst. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Graveside service 1:00 pm on MONDAY, March 6th, at BETH EL MEMORIAL PARK, 3726 Winnetka Ave. N., Crystal.