Cynthia E. Baker

Cynthia E. (Buchholz) Baker, 91, of Pender, NE, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, August 31, 2026. A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Munderloh-Smith Funeral Home in Pender. A private family graveside service will be held in the Bancroft Cemetery in Bancroft, NE. Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation. Arrangements are under the direction of Munderloh-Smith Funeral Home in Pender.

Cynthia was born on May 13, 1935, in rural Bancroft, NE, to Leo and Martha (Jahnke) Buchholz. She attended and graduated from Bancroft High School and was the Homecoming Queen in 1952. Shortly after graduation, Cynthia married Jack Shemat; from this union the couple had three children: Steve, Vincent, and John. The couple later divorced. On December 31, 1969, Cynthia married Darrel Baker in Pender, NE.

Cynthia started managing Indian Trails Country Club in 1976, and later the West Point Vets Club. Cynthia and Darrel worked together for many years in hospitality. While Cynthia was managing the business, Darrel was usually bartending and keeping a clean and friendly environment.

Cynthia enjoyed making popcorn and crocheting while watching Hallmark movies. She rarely missed a day without having a scoop of ice cream for dessert.

Cynthia is survived by her sons, John Shemat of Pender, NE, Steve Shemat of Calais, ME; stepchildren, Brian (Val) Baker of Wakefield, NE, Jenny Tyrrell of Pender, NE; sister, Peggy Krusemark of Pender, NE; 8 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Cynthia is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Darrel Baker; son, Vincent Shemat; stepson, Brad Baker; stepdaughter, Cindy Kubik; grandson, Adam Shemat; stepgrandson, Joshua Baker; brother, Charles (Sharron) Buchholz; brother-in-law, Dale Krusemark; and stepson-in-law, Verne Tyrrell.