Betty Jane Baker, 87

Betty Jane Baker, 87, passed away Oct. 13, 2011, in Coeur d'Alene. She was born July 11, 1924, in Chicago, Ill., to Maude G. and Dr. William Asa Baker.

She served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. She traveled the country for a few years, with the goal of visiting each state. Betty would move and work to earn enough money for a train ticket to the next state. She eventually lived in about 35 states.

At the age of 45 she learned to drive a car, but for years would make only right hand turns. She returned to school and earned her high school diploma in Reno, Nev., at age 51 - graduating the same year as her oldest daughter (1975). Betty then attended community college in Reno, obtaining the training to work as a mental health technician, a job she dearly loved. She enjoyed white water rafting and tubing in her 70s. She is especially remembered for her sense of humor and her patriotism.

Betty is survived by her children, Gail Brimhall (Shannon) of Post Falls, Linda Tuccillo of Coeur d'Alene, Steve Astlund (Patty) of Post Falls, Regan Butler of Tipp City, Ohio; grandchildren, Jordan and Holly Brimhall, Cody and Jessi Astlund, Hunter Tuccillo, Will, Reilly, Sam and John Butler; sister-in-law Charlene Lewandowski; nephew Paul Baker and his sons, Nicholas and Ryan; niece Janet Baker, all of the Chicago area.

Special thanks to the folks at Pinewood Care Center for their wonderful, loving care for Betty.

A private family gathering will be held in the future.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hazen & Jaeger Funeral Home, Spokane.