Jean Baker Polhans, 80, of Brown Deer Wisconsin, formerly of Fort Madison, Iowa, passed away at 1:47 a.m., Monday, March 24, 2025, in Mequon, Wisconsin.
She was born on December 20, 1944, in Fort Madison, Iowa, the daughter of Harvey “Bud” and Mary (Kaltefleiter) Huffman. On October 12, 1968, she married Ronald L. Baker in West Point, Iowa.
She is survived by her two daughters: Lori Baker (Mark) Kusnierewicz, Shannon (Ryan) McKenzie; grandchildren: Aury, Justin, Tyler, Anya; sister: Mary Kay Krogmeier and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Connie Peel, Jane Huffman; uncles: John, Joe, Ray, Bill, Bernard and Leonard Kaltefleiter, and her daughter Angela Radtke.
Jean’s life was focused on her faith and her family. A devout Catholic and tireless prayer warrior, she devoted a good portion of her day to praying for her family, friends, and anyone in need. She was a loving mom, grandma, sister and friend that never ended a conversation without an “I love you” and would often call back to make sure she hadn’t forgotten to say it. Those calls will be especially missed.
Jean worked in the office at Sacred Heart Hospital in Fort Madison prior to her marriage to Ronald Baker. Once married she stayed home and devoted her life to raising her three daughters. She loved her three girls more than anything and looked forward to reuniting with her daughter, Angela, in heaven one day. She spoke to her sister and best friend, Mary Kay, daily. Jean’s other favorite activity was socializing. She loved spending time with her friends at Eagle Bluff Apartments in Fort Madison and for the last two years at New Perspective Senior Living in Brown Deer, Wisconsin. Jean knew everyone’s name and took a genuine interest in getting to know them.
The family will receive friends from 12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 5, 2025, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in West Point, Iowa.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 5, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Father Dan Dorau as celebrant.
Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in West Point.
A memorial has been established in her memory for Horizon’s Lawlis Family Hospice: 13111 North Point Washington Road, Mequon, Wisconsin 53097.
Schmitz Funeral Home of West Point is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.schmitzfuneralhomes.com.