Anne Viola "Sis" Baker

Racine – Anne Viola (nee: Slaasted) “Sis” Baker, 84, passed away at her residence on Thursday, August 11.  She was a lifelong resident of Racine.  She was born on April 6, 1927, daughter of the late Haakon and Anne (nee: Sorensen) Slaasted.

Anne was united in marriage on October 9, 1948 at Holy Communion Church to the late Thomas E. Baker, Sr., who preceded her in death on March 7, 2011.

Anne attended Horlick High School and was a factory worker for Howard Industries.  She was a member of the Danish Sisterhood in Racine.  Anne loved birds, especially owls, of which she collected many figurines.  She also collected many music boxes over the years.  Anne loved watching westerns, cooking, and canning fresh vegetables.  One of the greatest loves of her life was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She also was like a second mother to many of the neighborhood children.  Everyone that knew Anne will miss her dearly.

Anne is survived by her daughters, Gail (Richard Hovorka) Baker of Gleason, Sandra (Brian) Callis of Racine; daughter-in-law, Samantha Baker of Racine;  foster son, Glenn Purlee of Racine; grandchildren, Ashten Baker, Melissa Baker, Cody Baker, Gary (Andrea) Granger, Jr., Germaine (Brian) Eisel, Gwen Granger, Geralyn Granger, Garrick Granger, Erick (Ashley) Callis, Matthew (Ashley) Callis, Jacob (Amanda) Callis; 15 great-grandchildren;brother, Paul Smaglick; sisters-in-law, Bernice Slaasted, Lillian Slaasted; and other relatives too numerous to mention.

In addition to her husband, Anne is preceded in death by her sons, Thomas E. Baker, Jr., Robert James “Bobby” Baker, brothers and sisters, Henry (Gladys) Slaasted, Einar Slaasted, Hans Slaasted, Ralph Slaasted, Helen (Victor) Andrews, Ingrid Slaasted, Sylvia (Martin) Brinkmann, Arvid (Phyllis) Slaasted, and Joan “Fuzzy” Smaglick.

A memorial service is being planned by the family on Thursday, August 18, 6:30pm, at First United Methodist Church, 745 Main Street, with Rev. Brad Van Fossen officiating.  Visitation will be from 4:30pm until the time of the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorials have been suggested to the family.