Herbert Bryce Baker

Herb was born November 11, 1931 in San Diego, California as the only boy in a family with three sisters. Herb always had fond memories of his childhood in Southern California and often shared those memories with his family.

After High School, Herb enlisted in the Navy and served in the Sea Bees (Construction Battalion) during the Korean Conflict. Following his military service Herb came to Pocatello with a buddy, Morris “Pete” Peters and enrolled in the welding program at Idaho State College. In Pocatello, Herb met Maleita Ann Wilson and they were married on March 8, 1958.

Herb and Pete started a “speed shop” in Pocatello after completing their welding program. He delivered milk for Ward’s Dairy in the morning while working at the speed shop in the afternoon. The economy being what it was, the speed shop was forced to close after some time. Herb then took jobs with RW Frank Building Supply and Leese Oil Company. Later he worked as a field mechanic for Massey-Ferguson in Pocatello and the surrounding area. Ultimately Herb was hired by the State of Idaho, Highway Department as a welder and fabricator for the heavy road equipment. Herb eventually retired from the State Highway Department after many years of faithful service.

Herb had a keen fondness and aptitude for guns and shooting and all things with engines. He ran a shotgun repair service for many years and once said that he gave up goose hunting because he loved seeing the birds flying. Herb’s love for gas powered vehicles extended to cars, motorcycles, boats and snow planes and he owned at least one of each and multiples of the others. Herb’s favorite was the ’32 Ford Roadster or Coup. When he came to Pocatello, he arrived driving a retired military ambulance towing a 1932 Ford Roadster. There is a ’32 Coup in his garage today.

Herb was a member of the Pocatello Street Rod Club for many years. He was instrumental in establishing the NHRA track in Pocatello at a time when there were only three on the west coast. Herb is known for reminiscing and storytelling. He has always enjoyed sharing his Hot Rodding experiences with other like minded friends.

Herb died Monday, May 17, 2021 at home with family. Herb is survived by his wife of 63 years, Maleita Ann Wilson Baker; daughter, Cindy (Don) Beamis, Chubbuck, daughter, Linda (Lance) Gunter, Blackrock, son, Kenneth Baker, Pocatello, daughter, Vicki Williamson, Seattle. He is also survived by his many grandchildren and grea- grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Heritage, Home Health and Hospice for their care and kindness.

There will be a Celebration of Life and Open House from 5pm to 7pm, Monday May 24, 2021at Meridell Park located at 5740 So. 5th Ave. in Pocatello.