Cherished beyond measure, Joel “JB” W. Baker “joined the angels in heaven” on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2014. He was 48. 

Joel was completely devoted to being the very best husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend the world has ever seen. Joel was truly beloved by his family and the Yakima, Wash., community for his tenure as a local DJ, for his kind and gentle spirit, and his great sense of humor.

Joel was born on May 8, 1966, to Neal and Helen Baker and grew up in Kalispell. He graduated from Flathead High School in 1984. After graduating, Joel was able to fulfill his dream of becoming a radio DJ at B98 FM Radio in Kalispell. He continued his passion for the field and enrolled in Bailie School of Broadcasting in Seattle to further learn his trade. After radio school, Joel moved back to Montana where he worked in radio all over his beloved “Big Sky Country.” In 1999 Joel took a position with a radio station in Yakima. He met his wife and decided that while Montana was his favorite place, Yakima was now home.

Joel married Kelly Grove on Oct. 6, 2001, and together they had three beautiful children. While Joel always had a passion for radio, his new passion became his wife and children. He enjoyed anything family oriented. He was happiest when his family was gathered near. Whether it was a movie in the park, watching his son Riley play soccer or act in a school play, participating in Lily’s therapy or walking her around the neighborhood in her wagon, or just dropping off a coffee to his wife at work, he loved it all.

In 2012 Joel faced a life-changing diagnosis of oral cancer. On Jan. 3, 2014, Joel was forced to finally shut off the mic and focus on surviving cancer and spending time making memories with his family. Though this last year was a difficult one with chemotherapy, radiation and more, he always said it was worth it because he was able to spend more time with his family.

Joel is survived by his wife, Kelly; children, Riley and Lily; parents, Neal and Helen Baker; sisters, Robin and Dan Hagadone, and Dana and Jack Coughlin; brother, Ino Sofjan, and Jen; nieces and nephews, Kelcee, Rachael, Connor, Austin, Abigail and Audrey; and many other extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Michael Ann Baker, in 2003; aunt, Kathie Davis; and his grandparents.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at Yakima Foursquare Church, 700 North 40th Avenue, with graveside services immediately following at West Hills Cemetery.

The family would like everyone to remember that Joel didn’t lose the battle to oral cancer, because he never gave up. Up until the last moment, he fought. He fought hard. He was also a huge advocate of promoting oral care. Joel never used tobacco products or drank heavily. It is important to get checked by your doctor if you have any concerns.

“You are the strongest, bravest, most inspirational man we have ever met. We love you to the moon and back. Thank you for fighting as hard as you did. Thank you for being you. Our love for you is unending.”

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the JB/Joel Baker Donation Fund at any Solarity Credit Union. 

Arrangements under direction of Shaw & Sons in Yakima. Memories may be shared at shawandsons.com.