Ann Baker Riker, 90, for many years a resident of Wilbraham and Lee, MA died peacefully on September 13, 2022. Born February 6, 1932 in Paterson, NJ to Atte and Teresa (Jongsma) Haagsma, she moved with her parents and five siblings to Whitinsville, MA where she spent her formative years. She graduated from Northbridge High School, attended Calvin College and, in 1953, graduated from the Blodgett School of Nursing. She worked as a nurse in many capacities concluding in 1995 at the Springfield College Health Center. She was active in the Visiting Nursing Association, the P.E.O., the Wilbraham Women’s Choral Group and is a past president of the Carew Hill Girls Club. Ann was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church where she served on several committees and made lasting friendships.
Ann was a loving mother, grandmother and devoted wife. She lived her faith each day with love and forgiveness. She was cherished by friends and family for her spiritual strength and empathetic ear. As much as possible, she quietly helped those in need. She loved reading, watching the Red Sox and enjoyed a competitive game of scrabble with her family. Though dearly missed, her memory will live on.
She is survived by her daughter, Susan Baker and husband George; her son, Jeffrey Baker and wife Heidi; her daughter-in-law, Virginia Baker; eight grandchildren, Margaret Baker, Allison Chang, Sarah Baker, Christopher Bakerlee, Mairead Baker, Luke Martin, Julia Martin, Catherine Baker; and two great grandchildren, Eva and Lucy. Ann was predeceased by her husband of 45 years, William Baker and her husband of 14 years Rodney Riker; and by two sons, Jonathan and Steven Baker.
Calling hours will be held Monday, September 19, from 4-7 pm at the Byron Keenan Funeral Home & Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen St., Springfield, MA. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, September 20, at 11:00 am at Trinity United Methodist Church, 361 Sumner Ave., Springfield. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers gifts may be made to the Jonathan and Steven Baker Scholarship Fund at Northfield Mount Hermon School, Trinity UMC or a charity of your choice. Please visit us at www.byronkeenan.com