Douglas Martin Baker

Douglas Martin Baker, 84, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, November 10, 2025.  

Born on July 19, 1941, Doug was the oldest child of Martin and Ruth (Tappen) Baker. He grew up with a love of music, playing trumpet in high school, and discovered early on what would become a lifelong passion for golf.  

Doug studied at DeVry University in Chicago, where a chance connection through his roommate led him to meet the love of his life, Ellen Vondran. They were married on August 26, 1967, and together built a life filled with deep devotion, enduring friendship, and unwavering support for one another.  

Doug spent his career with Hewlett Packard, where he made many lifelong friends. He treasured many memories from his time there, especially a brief but meaningful conversation he once shared with Dave Packard himself. 

Doug and Ellen raised their two children in Streamwood, Illinois, where he embraced community life and found joy in simple pleasures. Doug loved spending his summer vacations at the shared family cabin in Michigan, where he shared his love of nature and the outdoors with his children. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, and deer hunting, and relished a long-running “biggest tomato” contest with his brother-in-law. When his children were young, he happily coached youth soccer alongside other dedicated soccer dads. A dog lover throughout his life, Doug had a special fondness for German Shorthaired Pointers.  

He was proud to serve his community on Streamwood’s Planning Commission and was an active participant in the Neighborhood Watch for many years. Known for his kindness and readiness to lend a hand, Doug formed close friendships with neighbors and freely offered help whenever he could. 

In later years, Doug faced chronic health challenges with resilience and grace. He was a devoted caregiver to his beloved wife Ellen throughout her long illness, tending to her with extraordinary love and patience.  

Doug is survived by his siblings, Norm (Jan) Baker and Pamela Pickler; his children, Mary (Jeff) McSweeney and Marty (Christine) Baker; his grandchildren, Cameron and Quincy McSweeney and Jarod, Audrey, and Veronica Baker; his sisters- and brothers-in-law; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, Ellen, and his parents.  

Visitation and services will be held at Countryside Funeral Home, 1640 S. Greenmeadows Blvd., Streamwood, IL 60107, on Saturday, November 29th. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., with services at 12:00 p.m.  Doug will be remembered for his steady warmth, his generosity, and the deep love he held for his family and community. He will be greatly missed.