Phillip C. Baer, 72, of Hammond, IL, died at 2:36 p.m., Saturday, July 26, 2014 at home under the care of his family and hospice.


He was born July 19, 1942 in Decatur, IL, the son of Carl and Frances Baer. He is preceded in death by his parents. He married Jacque L. Ford on February 14, 1961 in Decatur, IL. She survives.

He is survived by his children, Melanie Baer (Neal Fentress) of Hammond; Michael Baer (Tammy) of Tuscola; Michelle Miller (Ron) of Hammond; Sister, Mary Ellen Baer, of Hammond; brother, Leonard Baer, of Prince Frederick, Maryland; and six grandchildren, Alexandria, Mycaela, and Reagan Miller of Hammond; Cameron, Connor and Caden Baer of Tuscola.


Visitation 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, July 30 at the funeral home.
Services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, July 31 at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 66 East US Highway 36, Atwood, IL followed by burial in Hammond Cemetery.

Phil graduated from Atwood-Hammond High School in 1960. He was owner/operator of Baer Construction since 1974. He was an ardent volunteer and leader in the Village of Hammond, a member of the United Methodist Church of Hammond, a lifelong member of the Hammond Fire Department (serving in various capacities of volunteer fireman, first responder and trustee), and also served as village trustee for many years. Phil was a trustee of Unity Township and involved in the Hammond Community Club and Hammond Community Boosters for many years. He had a great love for softball and baseball – playing, coaching and umpiring. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan. He will be missed by his family and community.

Memorials may be made to Hammond United Methodist Church and Hammond Community Boosters-Ball Diamond Fund.

Online condolences to the family may be shared via hilligossshraderfh.com