WILLISVILLE - Bob L. Baker, 86, of Willisville, passed away early Sunday morning, July 20, 2014 at his home in Willisville. Bob was born September 14, 1927 in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Onie and Arah (Bailey) Baker. He married Paulean Culp on April 2, 1948. They were married for 66 years before Paulean passed away on May 5, 2014. Bob was proud to serve his country in the Merchant Marines during World War II and again in the Korean War. He was only 17 when he enlisted for service but he felt this was one of the greatest adventures of his lifetime. Bob was a businessman, an active community leader. He owned and operated the Mobil Service Station in Willisville during the 1950's and later on in the 1960's, he and his late brother, Richard Baker created Baker Brothers Mobil, a gasoline and oil distributorship out of Ava, IL for many years. After he retired, he purchased the old Willisville Grade School building and developed "Schoolhouse Apartments: which he operated for several years. He served on the board of the First National Bank of Ava for 32 years. He was Christian and member of the Central Baptist Church of Willisville, serving as Sunday School Superintendent, Sunday School Teacher, Trustee and Deacon for nearly 50 years. Bob enjoyed traveling, making several trips to Israel and a visit to Russia. He was dedicated to his family and had many friends. He was generous and enjoyed helping others in whatever capacity was needed. He is survived by his daughters and their spouses, Beverly and Dr. Robert Smith of Ava and Martha and Bill Peebles of rural Percy. Grandchildren, Rob Smith of St. Louis, MO, Eric (Heather) Smith of Waterloo, IL, Arlin (Nancy) Peebles of Springfield, IL and Allison (Joe) Mason of Alto Pass, IL. Great Grandchildren, Samantha and Emma Smith of Waterloo, IL Maizie Peebles of Springfield, IL and Katherine Mason of Alto Pass, IL and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Paulean Baker, one son, Tyler Baker, two brothers, Richard and Homer Baker and his parents. Bob requested that his body be donated to The Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO. A memorial service to celebrate Bob's life will be held at the Central Baptist Church in Willisville on Saturday, August 2, 2014 at 10:00 am with Rev. Cleatus Zimmermann and Rev. Willis Durbin officiating. Anyone who would like to share a memory about Bob is welcome to do so during the service. Memorials can be made to the Central Baptist Church of Willisville.