Darrel Richard Baker

Darrel R. Baker-loving husband, partner, father, and friend-passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026, at the age of 84.

Darrel was born on May 28, 1941, in Olympia, Washington, to John and Bernice (Conrad) Baker. Bernice died when Darrel was 6 years old, and he lived with several foster families before he was reunited with his older brother, Jerry in a foster home.  When Darrel and Jerry were teenagers, they were taken in by their older sister, Irene, and her husband, Bob Sanders. He graduated from North Thurston High School in 1960 and served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves from 1961-1967.

On February 17, 1964, Darrel married Alma R. Larson and together they raised one son (Todd and Lara of Maple Valley) and two daughters (Tina of Olympia and Tami of Olympia). Darrel worked for Georgia Pacific from 1961 to 1969, when he left and began working at the Olympia Brewery, mostly in the Keg Department, until he retired in 1997. Alma passed away in 2008, and Darrel met his next love of his life, Laurel Dean, and remained in a 17-year relationship until his passing.

Darrel's main enjoyments included family time, traveling, hunting, fishing, reading, going to retirement homes “casinos”, and cracking jokes. Darrel also enjoyed playing poker, billiards, shuffleboard, and throwing horseshoes. Darrel was a big fan of the Seattle based teams Seahawks, Mariners, Huskies, and Sonics.

Darrel's passing leaves a deep and lasting absence in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He is survived by his life partner, Laurel, his children, brother - Jerry, three bonus children (Paul and Gina of Poulsbo, Angie and Brian of Olympia, and Heather of Olympia), two grandchildren (Darren and Samantha), and many nieces, nephews, and bonus grandchildren.

Darrel was a man of humor, pure love, positivity; a man we should all inspire to be like. Darrel enjoyed life.

A family and friend celebration will be held at the Lacey Community Center on May 18 at 1pm. He will be laid to rest at the Mills and Mills Memorial Park in Tumwater, WA.