Michael Baker Obituary

Michael Francis Baker Jr.

Jul 14, 1977 - Dec 29, 2024

Boise, ID

Michael Francis Baker Jr., 47, of Boise, Idaho, passed away from a sudden illness Sunday, December 29, 2024, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Mike was born July 14, 1977, in Middleburg Heights, Ohio, to Michael and Judith (Schmiel) Baker. He graduated from Huron High School and subsequently earned two degrees from Bowling Green State University. Mike graduated from Hillsboro Aviation Global Aero Flight Academy in Portland, Oregon.

Mike's life was defined by adventure, passion, and a relentless work ethic. A commercial helicopter pilot, certified flight instructor, and commercial boat captain, he was also an extreme sports enthusiast. He previously owned Sarasota Boat Towing and Recovery, Fishing Charter and Party Boat, and Clocked Out Adventures in Sarasota, Florida. Mike was an accomplished entrepreneur, builder and realtor. He grew up in the family business, Custom Window and Door Co. and Builders, in Sandusky, Ohio, alongside his father and brother, Matt, with whom he remained close, forming a lasting friendship. Mike founded and operated Baker Group USA, LLC, Container Home Pro in Boise, Idaho, and Venice, Florida. Mike founded Liquid Blue Outfitters Adventure Co. in Sarasota, Florida. His intelligence, savvy, and unyielding drive made him both a trusted partner and a cherished friend to people he met.

Mike's greatest joy was his daughter, Bryn Vivian Baker, whom he affectionately called "My Little B" and "My Best Buddy." Mike loved teaching Bryn drums and other instruments. Bryn wants to learn to play as many instruments as she can. She is a student at Boise School of Rock. They were inseparable. Mike was a member of the Saltines Band. He enjoyed watching Bryn run track. Mike instilled in her the same adventurous, compassionate, and courageous qualities that defined his own life.

Mike will be remembered for his love of family, his generosity, his fearless pursuit of life, and his unwavering fairness. People who met him felt his warmth, and his presence was magnetic. People didn't just want to do business with Mike; they wanted to be his friend.

He is survived by his daughter, Bryn, and her mother, Sandy Webb; his parents, Michael and Judith Baker; his brother, Matt and Michelle Baker; nephew, Dane; niece, Morgan; uncle, Bob Baker; uncles, Jim and Ken; and aunt, Kathie Conrad; and countless family, friends and colleagues whose lives he touched.

Michael is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Stephen Baker and Vivian and Vitus Zelinskas; maternal grandparents, Paul and Nora Schmiel; and aunt, Donna Baker.

Private family services will take place through Groff Funeral Homes & Crematory in Sandusky.

If you wish to donate to Michael's memory, please forward any donations to his father, Michael Sr., to establish a fund for Bryn: Michael Baker Sr., 215 Bucyrus Ave., Huron, OH 44839.

Condolences may be shared online at www.grofffuneralhomes.com.