Stacy A. Baker, 32, a LaGrange resident and rising financial futures trader at the Chicago Board of Trade, died Saturday in a car accident. Ms. Baker was a member of the Chicago Board of Trade and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, where she started her career in the trading pits. She went on to serve financial futures clients, most recently as a managing director for Golden Gate Futures at the CBOT. “She was a prominent, upcoming star,” said Norman Quinn, who hired her to work at Golden Gate Futures. “It was quite an accomplishment for her to reach that position, at her age, in such a highly male-oriented arena. She succeeded through her combination of intelligence, professionalism and quick wit.” Ms. Baker enjoyed athletics, including golf, softball and baseball. She earned a softball scholarship to Northern Illinois University. At Lyons Township High School, she was named most valuable player on the school’s girls softball team. She also was an avid Cubs fan who preferred to watch a game from the bleachers instead of her parents’ box seats. Ms. Baker is survived by her parents, John and Sally Baker; a brother, Michael; and two aunts. Visitation will be from 3 to 9 p.m. Monday in Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., in Countryside. A funeral mass will be said 10 a.m. Tuesday in St. Cletus Church, 600 W. 55th St. in LaGrange.
