Horace Ruble Baker III

Horace “Chip” Ruble Baker III died on July 2, 2021 as the result of single car crash on Yaak Valley-Libby Dam Road next to Lake Koocanusa.

Chip was a native son of the South, born on October 9, 1970 in Memphis, Tennessee, but spent most his childhood and young adult life in Atlanta, GA where he met his wife of 22 years, Shelia Joan Elizabeth Bunch, aka “Joanie.”

He attended Sprayberry High School in Marietta, GA, and upon graduation, went to work in the family concrete business. Always curious to learn and grow his skills, later Chip got into the construction business where he developed a life-long passion for building and craftsmanship.

He later moved to Eureka to be close to his wife’s family and fell in love with its natural beauty, often sharing that Montana was his adopted and permanent home.

The consummate renaissance man, Chip was well-versed in a variety of areas and enjoyed hobbies such as hunting, fishing, camping, NASCAR, reading, computers, movies, collecting coins and guns, and occasionally participating in a lively political discussion.

Chip was a loving husband, father, and friend, and was known for his easy-going attitude and generous heart, often spending countless hours in the service of others. Always quick with a smile and a kind word, Chip became the go-to guy for any type of home repair required by his extended family.

He is survived by his wife Joanie and their three children: Brandon Baker, Jamison Marvel and McKenna Baker; as well as his sister Jessica Philpot and stepfather Bob Haynes of Woodstock, GA. Chip was preceded in death by his mother Karen Haynes of Woodstock, GA. He will be sorely missed by his family and closest friends Troy Welch and Chris “Vantucky” McClure.

Chip was laid to rest on July 8, 2021 at Tobacco Valley Cemetery in a quiet ceremony attended by his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to McKenna Baker via Venmo (@MckennaELBaker) or Paypal (mckaylasky@gmail.com).  Services were under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Eureka.  Online memories and condolences may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.

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