Robert Swain Baker

Robert Swain Baker, 96, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away on May 12, 2026, at his home. He was born on December 3, 1927, to Donald and Edith Baker in Wabash, Indiana. His sister Marilyn Metcalf; brother James Baker; and his first wife Roselyn Baker (Montgomery) preceded him in death.

Robert graduated from Howe High School in Indianapolis in 1945. After graduating from Purdue University in 1949, he earned his master’s and PhD at Iowa State University. His professional career included teaching at IU Medical School before joining Eli Lilly in Indianapolis for a 32-year career in research. He was married to Roselyn Marie Montgomery for 58 years before her death in 2009.

After retiring from Eli Lilly, Robert spent most of his time protecting the environment for future generations. He was part of the team that oversaw the redevelopment of Fort Harrison from a military base to a state park. After that project, he relocated to Bonita Springs, Florida, where he was involved in the protection of the barrier islands and the nesting locations of the American Bald Eagle. In 2008 he and Roselyn returned to the Indianapolis area.

In 2010, he married Jennie Beth Barnhard and moved to Greenwood, Indiana. Most recently, Robert and Jennie Beth have been residing at the Robin Run Retirement Community in Indianapolis.

He is survived by his wife Jennie Beth Baker (Barnhard) and his two sons Donald and Laurence.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 19, from 10am to 11am, with a Funeral Service to follow at 11am, at Flanner Buchanan – Carmel, 325 E. Carmel Drive.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Downey Avenue Christian Church or the Amos W. Butler Audubon Society.