Francis Gene Baker, 97, of Excelsior Springs passed away Oct. 11, 2025, at home.

A visitation will be held noon-1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Excelsior Springs. A memorial service will follow, beginning at 1.

Francis was born March 11, 1928, to Chester Lee Baker and Mattie Leona (Hightower) Baker.

After attending Excelsior Springs High School, he joined the U.S. Navy. He was a Navy Seabee at Port Hueneme during the end of World War II.

Francis married Bessie Jean Barker on July 1, 1948. They shared life for 74 years. During that time, they had four children: Stanley Lee Baker (Eva), Dennis James Baker, Linda Sue (Baker) Howerton (Dan) and Gail Louise Baker.

He raised his family in Excelsior Springs and was a police officer for the local community. Francis was a detective and later retired as a lieutenant from the Excelsior Springs Police Department as their only motorcycle officer.

During his life, he held many other jobs. He was an auctioneer, antique dealer, truck driver and a small business owner, among other occupations.

Francis was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jean, both parents and both sons. Survivors include his daughters, Linda Howerton (Dan) and Gail Baker; and five grandchildren, Chris Baker, Stephanie Baker, Crystal Boucher (Billy), Danny E. Howerton Jr. (Christina) and Jeff Baker (Danielle).

Other survivors include 14 great-grandchildren: Bre’Anna, Chandler, Courtney (Ethan), Tre (Jasmine), Mason, Aubrey, Carsyn, Max, Zachary, Caleb, Elijah, Devin, Jacob and Abigail. He also leaves behind three great-great-grandchildren, Avery, Eden and Harley; and a beloved pet cat, Butterscotch.

He will be missed by all.