Bruce L. Baker, age 65 of Walnut Grove, passed away Wednesday, September 2, 2015 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. Memorial services will be at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, September 6 at the Walnut Grove Methodist Church. Visitation is 4:00-7:00 p.m. Saturday at the Walnut Grove Funeral Home with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to services at the church on Sunday. Burial is in the Walnut Grove Cemetery. Online condolences may be sent at www.stephensfuneralservice.com. Stephens Funeral Service – Walnut Grove Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Bruce Leslie Baker was born October 18, 1949 in Tracy, Minnesota to Clair and Betty (Mattson) Baker. He was baptized and confirmed at the United Methodist Church in Walnut Grove. Bruce graduated from Walnut Grove High School in 1967 and attended Granite Falls Vocational School, Mankato State University, and the U of M. He enlisted in the US Army and served with the 11^th Armored Cavalry (Blackhorse) in Vietnam. Bruce and Nancy Raddatz were married on July 9, 1977 in Wood Lake. They lived near Walnut Grove and raised their three sons. Bruce owned and operated the elevator in Walnut Grove where he enjoyed visiting with his customers. He later was able to pursue his lifelong passion of farming. Bruce enjoyed baling hay, working with livestock, and camping. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Bruce was a member of the United Methodist Church, American Legion, Lions, Disabled American Veterans, and the Masonic Lodge.

Bruce is survived by his wife Nancy of Walnut Grove; sons: Todd (Micara) Baker of New Market, Ryan (Marissa) Baker of Walnut Grove, and Trent (Kristy) Baker of Walnut Grove; grandchildren: Sophie, Eva, Grant, Nolan, and Carson; father Clair Baker of Walnut Grove; sister Barbara (Don) Bredthauer of Omaha, NE; brother Brent (Deb) Baker of Milbank, SD; and many other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his mother Betty Baker and brother Brian.