M. Dale Baker, 80, of Markleton, was reunited with his wife, 18 months after her passing, on January 15, 2026 at UPMC Somerset. Born June 28, 1945 in Somerset, the son of Lester and Blanche (Knopsnyder) Baker. He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, of 59 years, Eileen (Whipkey) Baker; brothers: Robert and Betty Baker, who raised Dale, Don Baker, Kenneth Baker and Roy Baker. He is survived by his children: Shawn Baker and wife Susan of Markleton, Robin Ansell and husband Mark of Rockwood; grandchildren: Scott Baker, Mason Ansell, Jennifer Blair and husband Michael, and Megan Ansell and fiancé Jonathan Pressley; great-granddaughters: Harper and Gabriella; nephews, who were more like brothers: Douglas Baker, Everett "Butch" Baker, Larry Baker, and Darwin Baker. A 1964 graduate of Rockwood High School, he worked for Sanner Sawmill, Fetterolf Mining where he was a foreman known as "Hogan", and the owner of Dale Baker and Son Excavating, which he founded in 1985. He was a member of Old Bethel Church. He will be greatly missed by his dog, Chewy, his Chocolate Lab, who has been a constant companion since Eileen's passing. He and Eileen enjoyed camping and going to gospel sings. He was a grave digger for many cemeteries, up until his 80th birthday. A special thank you to the UPMC Somerset staff in the ICU for their outstanding care. Family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Hauger-Zeigler Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Somerset. Viewing from 10-11 a.m. Friday at Old Bethel Church, Markleton, where a service will immediately follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Duane Riddle officiating. Interment Old Bethel Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital. Arrangements Hauger-Zeigler Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Somerset. To leave a condolence please visit www.haugerzeigler.com.