John Perry Baker slipped away from this life into the next with grace and courage October 20, 2025. He was born January 19, 1953, in Walla Walla, Washington, to Roger Evan Baker and Eleanor Harwood Baker.

John graduated from West Valley High School in Yakima in 1971 and moved to La Conner shortly thereafter. He worked for a while at San Juan Sam Pea Cannery and then for Nefco Fidalgo in Ketchikan, Alaska to earn enough money for college. John earned B.A. degrees in History and Accounting from Western Washington University. He went on to become a certified public accountant, working in accounting for over four decades.

John met the love of his life, Mary Hedlin, at the La Conner United Methodist Church. They married in 1974. They were best friends and beloveds for over 51 years. One of the greatest joys in John’s life was the arrival of son Tomas in 1988. He was always proud of Tom and loved being his father. During John’s illness, Tomas was always present and tremendously supportive of his father, which John so appreciated.

John was active in his community and loved singing in the church choir, which he attended for over 50 years. He participated in the La Conner Community Theatre, especially enjoying his role as Curly in Oklahoma. Many remember his joyful performance in a Barbershop Quartet.

John was an advocate and strong supporter of the family farm. He was an affectionate man who enjoyed silliness. His passions were music and golf. He played some of his best scoring games in the last year, which meant a lot to him. He also loved a tidy lawn and mastered the art of mowing.

John is survived by his wife Mary, his son Tomas, and his siblings Roger Douglas Baker, Barbara Alyn Campbell (Steve), Jo Anne Mason (George Gamble), James Evan Baker, and Gayle Adelle Rowbotham (Jeff). He also leaves behind family members Dave Hedlin, Serena Campbell, Carol Hedlin, and Margot Knuth, all of whom will miss him greatly, as well as many dear nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at Maple Hall in La Conner at 2:00 PM on Nov. 9. All are welcome to attend.

Memorials may be made to Fred Hutch Cancer Center, 1100 Fairview Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98109; Skagitonians to Preserve Farmland, P.O. Box 2405, Mount Vernon, WA 98273; Hospice of the Northwest, 227 Freeway Drive, Suite A, Mount Vernon, WA 98273; or the charity of your choice.