James Edward “Ed” Baker

DeWitt, Michigan.

James Edward “Ed” Baker, age 76, passed away on July 4, 2025, at Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, surrounded by his loving children. He was born on May 30, 1949, in Lansing, Michigan, to William Alfred and Virginia (Murdoch) Baker.

Ed was a lifelong member of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church. He graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1967 and went on to earn an Associate Degree in General Studies, Accounting, and Data Processing from Lansing Community College. He later transferred to Michigan State University, where he majored in Accounting.

Ed began his professional career as Athletic Club Manager at Oak Park Village Athletic Club. He then joined Melling Forging Company, where he rose to the role of Assistant Controller, also taking on responsibilities as a computer operator and programmer. In 1982, he started a long and fulfilling career at Auto-Owners Insurance Company as an Associate Programmer. Over time, he became a Data Systems Analyst in the Premium Collections unit of the Accounting Department. During his time at Auto-Owners, Ed completed the Dale Carnegie course and proudly served as a Graduate Assistant for seven consecutive units. He retired in 2014 after 32 and a half years of dedicated service.

An avid racquetball player, Ed competed during his time at Oak Park and MSU. He also enjoyed many years of golf in the Auto-Owners league. A devoted fan of both Michigan State and Penn State athletics, Ed became a passionate supporter of MSU’s Varsity Hockey team. Introduced to the program during his college years, he held season tickets for over 40 years, attending games first at Demonstration Hall and later at Munn Arena.

In retirement, Ed cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren. He dedicated countless hours to organizing his extensive music collection and enjoyed collecting and curating recipes to create Kate’s Confections, a cookbook for his daughter. He also coordinated the Auto-Owners retiree lunch group, gathering with friends twice a month to share stories and stay connected.

One of Ed’s lifelong dreams came true when he purchased his BMW Z4. He took great joy in evening drives with the top down, cruising through town and savoring the moment. He will be remembered for his boundless kindness, quiet strength, and the way he made others feel seen and loved—with nothing expected in return. His compassionate heart, corny jokes, and unwavering love were a gift to everyone who knew him. Though he is gone, his gentle spirit lives on in the lives he touched.

Surviving are his children, Katie (Matthew) Walker and Billy (Baylie) Baker; grandchildren, Gabriella, Chloe and Lucas Walker; cousins, Mary (Claude) Smith and Peggy Hills; other cousins and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; aunt, Katherine; uncle, Jim (Peg) Murdoch; cousins, Betty (Chuck) Martin and Sonny Hills; and grandson, Lincoln Walker.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, July 19 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at DeWitt Charter Township Community Center, 16101 Brook Rd., Lansing, MI 48906.

Contributions may be made in Ed’s memory to the Miracle League of Mid-Michigan: Operations Fund (1445 W Herbison Rd., DeWitt, MI 48820) or Hospice House of Mid-Michigan (www.uofmhealthsparrow.org/our-hospitals-services/services/hospice-care)