Lou Ann Baker

Lou Ann Baker, 82, of Canfield, Ohio, passed away peacefully March 13, 2024. She was born Feb. 1, 1942, to Robert and Neva Coffindaffer in Clarksburg, W.Va. After graduating from Unidis High School in 1959, she furthered her education with a bachelor’s degree in education from Salem University in Salem, W.Va., in 1962, and a master’s degree as a Reading Specialist from West Virginia University in 1975.

Lou Ann dedicated her life to the field of education; her first teaching experience was in Madison, Ohio. She went on to teach at other school systems including Wellsville City Schools and at the Columbiana County Vocational and Technical Center. She retired from education in 1996 after 32 years. Lou Ann was a member of the Columbiana County Board of Education for 18 years, serving as president for eight of those years.

Lou Ann married the love of her life, Dennis Kyle Baker, in 1975. They lived on a farm in Highlandtown, Ohio, for 43 years before moving to Canfield. They worked side by side raising beef cattle and growing several large plentiful gardens. She loved to cook, bake and design beautiful table arrangements. Growing flowers was her passion, especially lilacs. She loved animals, particularly her Yorkies – Dusty, Brandy and Mocha.

Lou Ann is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dennis “Kyle” Baker; sister Mary Jo Short and her parents Robert and Neva Coffindaffer, as well as grandparents Garnett and Beryl Coffindaffer, Fred and Blanch Stinespring. She is survived by her daughter, Marla Baker Lash and husband Scott, grandchildren Piper Ann and Riley Kyle Taufiq Lash of Twinsburg, Ohio; brother-in-law Rich Short of Good Hope, W.Va.; nephew, Steve Strong and wife Carmen of Clermont, Fla.; niece Joann Caldwell and husband Briand of Lewis Center, Ohio, and their two children Eliza and Colin Caldwell, as well as several cousins.

In everyone’s life there are special people who are kind and caring. These neighbors and friends were especially important to the family as they were always there for Lou Ann, whether it was to help with a chore or be there as a friend – Steve and Kathy Cooper, Joe and Jackie Ascione, Steve and Jane Gibson, Phil and Phyllis Simmers and Angel Gatto, a trusted friend and companion who was always ready to help when and where needed.

A private service will be held at The Martin Chapel of CARE Funeral and Cremation Specialists. A graveside service, officiated by Pastor Charles McLaughlin is scheduled for Saturday, March 23, 2024 at noon at the Good Hope Masonic Cemetery in Good Hope, W.Va. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Lou Ann’s name to The American Cancer Society.

Lou Ann will be dearly missed by her family and friends. Her legacy of dedication, kindness, and love will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. May she rest in peace.

3/21/24