Robert C. Baker

Robert Carnes “Bob” Baker, 83, of Fisher, IL, died at home April 28, 2026.

Bob was born in Urbana August 1, 1942, to William H “Bill” Baker and Sarah Elizabeth “Betty” (Carnes) Baker. Bob attended Champaign schools and graduated from the Champaign Senior High School in 1960 and the University of Illinois College of Commerce and Business Administration at Urbana-Champaign in 1966. He earned his B.S. in Commerce with a specialization in Marketing. Bob worked for the U.S. Geological Survey after graduating high school and before graduating from the University of Illinois.

Bob had a lengthy and successful career at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with the Purchasing Division. He held various positions including Director of Purchases, Chief Procurement Officer and later CEO and Director of Illinois Public Higher Education Cooperative. Bob was instrumental in the development of the procurement system for the Illinois state universities.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Betty Baker. He is survived by his wife Judith (McJilton) Baker whom he married April 8, 1966. They had 60 beautiful years together. He is also survived by his son David (Nancy) Millen of Warsaw, MO, daughter Laura Baker of Fisher, IL, brother William H. “Bill” Baker, Jr. of Utah, a brother in law and sister in law, several nieces and nephews, and many wonderful friends and colleagues.

Bob had various interests and hobbies. He hunted Elk in Colorado, Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming. He hunted pheasants with his beloved hunting dogs Hank and Rex and duck and quail with Bart, all of whom have crossed the rainbow bridge. Bob enjoyed vacationing and fishing with his wife, children, and extended family in Minocqua, Wisconsin where many fish were caught, tales were told, laughter shared, and memories made. Bob was dearly loved and will be missed by many.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel, 1551 E. Grove Ave. Rantoul, IL 61866.

Memorials may be made to Sangamon Valley Fire Protection District 104 E. Sangamon Box 714, Fisher, IL 61843. The family would like to specially recognize and thank OSF Hospice for their care and compassion.

Please join Bob’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.