Betty (Glass) Baker, born to Alfred Glass and Rose (Pfister) Glass in Lewiston, on Oct. 1, 1948, embarked on her journey to eternity on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She was 75 years old.
Betty’s story began in the heart of Idaho, where she attended Lewiston High School. With a thirst for adventure, she pursued her education further at Kinman Business University in Spokane, which was a time that she held dear for the friendships and memories she made there. Betty loved to share stories of her high school and college days and both Lewiston and Spokane remained very special places for her.
Betty moved to Oregon in 1973 where her life took a turn toward destiny. There, she met the love of her life, Daniel Baker. Their connection was instantaneous, and within six months of meeting they exchanged vows on Aug. 18, 1973, and settled down in Summerville, Ore. Their union was blessed with four beautiful daughters, each a testament to the enduring love shared between Betty and Danny.
In 1996, Betty and Danny began a new adventure together, purchasing the Sub Shop in LaGrande, Ore., a beloved establishment in their community. For years, they poured their hearts and souls into the business, serving their patrons with warmth and dedication. As the owner of the Sub Shop, Betty didn’t just serve sandwiches; she cultivated relationships. Betty found joy in the connections she made with her customers and employees, each interaction a chance to brighten someone’s day with her warm smile and genuine kindness. Danny would always joke that anyone who walked through the door was Betty’s friend, and she was often heard saying “my sandwiches are made with love.” Beyond the Sub Shop counter, Betty’s circle of friends extended far and wide. She enjoyed her Bunco parties with her “Bunco Babes,” where laughter and camaraderie filled the room. Betty also held her Facebook friends close to her heart, finding comfort and joy in the virtual connections she nurtured.
One of Betty’s greatest joys was spending quality time with her sister, Arlene. Together they set off on countless camping adventures, their side-by-side motor-home campsites serving as the backdrop for laughter and their shared love of nature. Betty found immense joy visiting the Oregon coast where she made annual journeys and never missed a chance for “a trip to the coast.” Betty found excitement and freedom in the open road. Whether it was a spontaneous trip to the mountains, a weekend getaway to a nearby town, or a cross-country journey to uncharted territories, Betty was always up for an adventure, eager to discover new sights, experiences and restaurants where she would take endless pictures of all the small, beautiful details along the way. Betty found solace in painting, delighted in puttering around her yard and cherished the surprise flowers she received from her special friend, Bob Loveless.
Above all, Betty’s greatest joy came from spending time with, and offering unwavering support to, her children and grandchildren. They were the light of her life and she cherished every moment she spent with them. Betty’s home in Summerville was not just a house; it was a sanctuary of love and hospitality, where family and friends were always welcomed with open arms and open hearts. Betty created a haven where laughter echoed, and memories were woven into the very fabric of the walls. Every holiday, birthday and special occasions were an opportunity for Betty to open her doors and extend her hospitality to all who crossed the threshold of the home she loved and lived in for 51 years. Whether it was a festive Thanksgiving feast, a cozy Christmas celebration which she poured herself into, or a lively birthday bash, Betty’s home was always filled with love, laughter and the warmth of cherished company.
Betty’s legacy of love, kindness and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Betty was not only a devoted wife and mother but also a pillar of strength and support for her family and friends. Her kindness, compassion and unwavering love touched the lives of all who knew her. Whether through her gentle words of wisdom or her warm embrace, Betty left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
A celebration of Betty’s life will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 19, at Aspen Meadows in Summerville. Following the service, a graveside service will be held at Summerville Cemetery. We invite all who knew and loved Betty to join us in honoring her memory and sharing stories of her remarkable life. Loveland Funeral Chapel of LaGrande will be handling arrangements.
Betty is survived by her four daughters and their loving husbands: Danette and Andreas Studer of Waitsburg, Wash., Wendi and Joe Fisher of Summerville, Angie and Bucky Haney of Paisley, Ore., and Kristi and Austin McDonald of Imbler, Ore.; her treasured grandchildren: Tanner, Carter, Avonlea and Natalie Crook; Millie and Jack Fisher; Logan Baker; and Tyler and Trevor Haney. Betty leaves behind her devoted sister and brother-in-law, Arlene and David Baker, her brother-in-law Ronnie Baker, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Christine and Mike Brinkman, sister-in-law Sandy Hill and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, along with a vast network of friends, all of whom held a special place in her heart.
Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Dan, her parents, her brothers Gerald Glass, Frank and Bobby Kleist, her sister Arletta Banks and sister-in-law, Carol Baker.
Though Betty may have departed from this world unexpectedly, her love will continue to guide us, lighting the way through our grief and reminding us to cherish each moment we have with those we hold dear. Rest in peace, dear Betty, knowing that you are deeply loved and will be forever missed.