An original member of the Utah Symphony Orchestra, Grant Watkins Baker, passed away peacefully on October 28, 1998. He told some family members that his "body parts and passions were worn out."
Grant was born on November 26, 1915 in Mendon, Utah. This would make him 83 years old this Thanksgiving. He was raised and educated in Mendon, Brigham City, and Magna. As a youth he was athletic and a talented musician. As catcher on the Cyprus High Baseball team he also won the Musician of Promise Award at the Utah State Fair two consecutive years, once on the bassoon and once on the baritone.He started a family tradition by earning his Eagle Scout Award and serving an LDS Mission in Germany. Three generations have followed this tradition, including two surviving sons, Roger Grant Baker (Pam) of Ephraim, and Kent Jackson Baker (Julie) of South Jordan. He was preceded in death by one son, Craig Jackson Baker. His surviving daughters are Beverly (Kenneth) Crockett of Midvale and Elise (Rick) Hellstrom of Riverton. His posterity includes 20 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his wife, Rachel Jackson Baker, a temple sealed companion who has a good start on eternity with him at 57 years of marriage.
Grant graduated from Brigham Young University and the University of Utah with degrees in Education and Music. He served in Germany during World War II as an interpreter, served in the church in official callings (Gospel Doctrine Teacher was a favorite) as well as neighborhood sidewalk shoveler, lawn mower, comforter, and errand runner for the elderly.
As a music teacher in the Jordan School District, he prided himself in the fact that student body officers usually came from his bands and orchestras. He loved the kids he taught and made sure they were treated after marching in the summer parades even if the treat came from his own pocket.
He will be remembered for a sense of humor which would have everyone reminded that "the whole fam damily" invites friends and relatives to the viewing at the Larkin Mortuary from 6 to 7 p.m. on Friday October 30 and to the funeral in the McKay Ward (1623 So. 500 East) on Saturday, October 31 at 12 noon. Friends may also call at the McKay Ward from 10:45 to 11:45 prior to the funeral.
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