Lawrence Cecil “Lonny” Baker
June 26, 1948-Aug. 6, 2024
MERIDEN – Lawrence Cecil “Lonny” Baker, 76, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, with his beloved daughters by his side. Lonny will be remembered as a loving father, son and grandfather, and a free spirit who left a mark on anyone lucky enough to know him. Known for his generous nature, fierce love of animals, and great taste in music, Lonny lived a life of love and adventure set to an awesome soundtrack until taking his final journey to the Spirit in the Sky.
Lonny was born in Topeka June 26, 1948, to Lawrence “Larry” Baker and Sylvia Margaret “Peggy” (Hamacher) Baker. He moved with his family to California in 1951. Lonny’s natural playfulness and passion for life resulted in many friendships in childhood and beyond. He cherished his time in California, and fondly remembered many oceanside visits and adventures among the towering redwood trees.
The family moved back to Kansas in 1962, where Lonny attended Osage City High School. As a teenager, he was a phenomenal baseball player with an undeniable passion for the game. As a young adult, Lonny and his companion dog traveled coast to coast, spending many evenings together just Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay.
Looking to settle down and Take It Easy, Lonny moved back to Kansas, where he met his first love, Lu Ann Harris. They were married in 1982, and later welcomed their daughters, Jessica and Gracy. Lonny’s girls were the loves of his life, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for them. He instilled in them his unconditional love for animals and people, and never ended a goodbye hug or phone call without his steadfast reminder, “I love you with all my heart.”
A true family man, Lonny’s happiest moments were spent with his girls. He embraced being a girl dad, and whether he was playing Barbies, braiding hair or dress shopping, Lonny Let It Be and never complained. If his girls were happy, he was happy. Lonny loved coaching his daughters’ softball teams and cheering them on as they pursued their passions. Never missing a game or event, he could often be seen in the stands holding up handwritten posters reminding his girls he supported them, loved them and would forever be their #1 fan.
Lonny’s loving nature and calm demeanor made everyone feel welcomed and cared for in his presence. He was a Simple Man, whose free spirit and hippie soul shone brightly through the music he listened to, the plants and produce he tended to, and the legendary 4th of July parties he threw for his family and friends. He was a passionate collector of Native American artifacts, which he proudly displayed inside and outside of his home for all to enjoy. He loved the Royals and never missed the chance to watch a good football game on TV.
As a young adult, Lonny took great pride in his work as a skilled tradesman. He also spent time as a landscaper, which he didn’t really consider work, because he loved it so much. For many years, he was the proud owner of Baker’s Trading Post, where he found joy not just in selling unique collectibles, artifacts and antiques, but in telling the stories behind each piece. He later went on to work for Ernest-Spencer.
Years after divorcing, Lonny met his sweetheart and soulmate, Marla Barnes. Together, they lived a peaceful life in Meriden. Lonny was a very proud “Papa,” who loved spending time with his grandchildren and watching them grow.
Lonny was preceded in death by his father, Larry Baker, and brother, Alvin Baker.
He is survived by his beloved mother, Peggy Allen, who will forever cherish the memories and love they shared together. His legacy lives on through his loving daughters, Jessica Lockwood (Tom Brown) and Gracy Irvin (Ryan), who will honor his memory each and every day. Lonny shared a strong bond of friendship with his sister, Cyndi Paul (Dave), who will continue to reflect his kind and loving spirit. His life was deeply enriched by the love of his sweetheart, Marla Barnes. His joy was multiplied by his grandchildren – Tyler, Madison and Molly Lockwood, Kalahan and Lennox Irvin, and Samson Lopez – who will carry with them the treasured memories of a doting Papa. Lonny held a special place in his heart for his Aunt Thelma, many cousins, and each of his nephews and niece.
A celebration of life honoring Lonny will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 22 at The Garden House at Lake Shawnee, 3720 Southeast Yacht Court, Topeka. Friends and family are encouraged to come and go as they please, just as Lonny would want. Together, we will celebrate a man well-loved and a life well-lived.
Fly like an Eagle, Dad. We love and miss you, always.
