Dodge City - Harold William "Bill" Baker, 70, died May 18, 2021 at Western Plains Medical Complex, Dodge City.  He was born on October 27, 1950 at Independence, the son of Harold J. and Robyn Thais (Ivy) Baker.

At the age of two, Bill moved with his family to Amarillo, Texas, where he spent his childhood years. His family returned to Independence when Bill was fifteen years old, where he later graduated from high school. After high school, Bill received his Bachelor's degree from Pittsburg State University. He then worked as a substitute teacher while obtaining his Masters in Vocational Education from Kansas University. After graduating with his Masters, Bill began teaching for the Southwest Kansas Area Vo Tech School, where he taught until its closing. He then went on to work for Curtis Machine until his retirement. Bill married Dolly Scott on June 26, 1971 in Independence; together they had two children, Travis and Michelle.

Bill loved racing, especially sprint cars. He also enjoyed helping young racers get started. He loved watching them and seeing their happy faces. Bill also loved hanging out with the guys at the race shop. Another of Bill's passions was driving his hot rod.

He is survived by his wife, Dolly Baker of Dodge City; son, Travis Baker and wife Nichol of North Liberty, Iowa; daughter, Michelle Sack and husband Darrin of Hays; three grandchildren, Micheal Hernandez, Isaac Baker, and Jillian Baker; two brothers, Michael Baker of Independence and John Baker and wife Theresa of King George, Virginia; and sister, Sandy Baker of Independence. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Robyn Baker.

Memorial service will be held at Swaim Funeral Chapel in Dodge City on Monday, May 24, 2021 at 2:00 PM with Mr. Jeff Hiers presiding.  The service will also be live streamed on the Swaim Funeral Chapel Facebook page. There will be no visitation as cremation has taken place.  Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.