Phillip Wade Baker, 81, of Eufaula, passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2020, at his home. Phillip was born on August12, 1939, in Howe, Oklahoma, the son of Charles Wheeler and Phala Dawes (Caldera) Baker. He graduated from Wilburton High School in 1957. He enlisted in the United States Army on February 16, 1962. He was honorably discharged on August 28, 1967. Phil received his Bachelor's Degree in History from Northeastern State University in 1967. In 1972, he received his Master's Degree in Counseling from Northeastern State University. On February 1, 1975, Phil married Beatta Wolff in Norman, Oklahoma. They were happily married for forty-five years. Phil joined the Oklahoma National Guard and served from 1982-1985. Phil taught social studies at Eufaula High School and was the counselor at the junior high for 21 years. While working at the school, he also taught driver's education. After retiring from the school, he worked for Brian Speligene for ten years at Eufaula Ford. When the lake came in, Phil was a lake patrolman for several summers. He enjoyed hunting deer and spending time with his family. Phil was a member of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church of Eufaula.
Survivors include: his wife, Beatta, of the home; his son, Christian Baker and wife Natalie of Lolo, Montana; his daughter, Jamie Gilman and husband Chuck of College Station, Texas; grandchildren, Charlie and Avery Gilman and Aspen and Welles Baker. He is preceded in death by his parents, C.W. and Phala Baker and a brother, Charles Baker.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude at www.stjude.org, the Alzheimer's Association at act.alz.org, God's Helping Hands, PO BOX 533, Eufaula, OK 74432 or the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, PO BOX 687, Eufaula, OK 7442.