Thomas William Baker
Tom Baker, age 63, of Holt, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, July 4, 2021. He was born in Detroit on September 21, 1957, beloved son of Leo and Carol (Johnson) Baker. He grew up in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, graduating from Andover High School and then obtaining his Bachelor’s Degree from Northwood University. Tom made his career in the auto sales industry as a buyer, currently working at Shaheen Chevrolet of Lansing.
Tom’s easy-going personality put a smile on the face of all who met him. He loved the outdoors going hunting and playing golf, which he enjoyed with his sons. He followed the Detroit Tigers and was an avid fan of the University of Michigan. His greatest joy though was his family.
Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 23 years, Patty, and his children Lucy Baker and Cole Baker of Holt, Dana (and Jeremy) Butdorf of South Carolina, and Kyle (and Sarah) Baker of South Carolina. Also, Tom’s brother Dan and Jill Baker of East Lansing, and brother-in-law Shane and Mary May of North Dakota. Nephews and niece Kris (and Jennifer) Elliott, Shawn (and Amy) Elliott, and Keri (and Evan) Strickler. Aunt and grandma to his kids, Judy Sumerix. Tom was predeceased by his parents, his brother Patrick Baker, and his father‑in-law Neil May.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 9, 2021, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel at 4:00 p.m. Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to the “Future Education Fund” through MSUFCU, 200 E. Jolly Rd., Lansing, MI 48911 (for Cole and Lucy).
16 Messages to “Thomas William Baker”
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Phyllis May
July 6, 2021 at 10:07 amTo Patty and family. Uncle Don and Aunt Phyllis have you in our prayers. We are sorry for your loss. Please reach out to us if we can help you in any way. God Bless.
chris collier
July 6, 2021 at 11:51 amMy prayers to the family, Tom was a great man and a better person, and I am proud to say I got to learn from him. May our Lord comfort you all.
Benito Moreno III
July 6, 2021 at 2:23 pmOur prayers go out to you.
Robin Ramos
July 6, 2021 at 2:43 pmI’m so glad that Tom was at the big May family reunion in Fredericksburg VA in 2017. Thanks to Patty for being there with the family. A lot of us who don’t live in Michigan had an opportunity to spend time with Tom. Sending much love and blessings to Patty and the kids, and deep condolences over the loss of a loving husband and father.
Justin Judge
July 6, 2021 at 2:58 pmPatty, Lucy, Cole, Dana and Kyle – I can’t imagine how you all are feeling right now. My heart hurts for you. Your husband and father was a great man and a great friend to many people – he will surely be missed. Every phone call we had ended with let’s get together soon with the family and I love you- if only we knew what time we had left. Love you all
Justin Kristin Chloe and Elle Judge
John Fillion
July 6, 2021 at 3:31 pmThe news of Tom’s passing has left a huge hole in my heart. He will be missed by everyone that the pleasure to know Tom. RIP my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Love the Fillion’s, John,Jennifer,Emma and Anna
Jeffrey Simpson
July 6, 2021 at 4:26 pmWe love his daughter Dana and we pray the entire family as you come to a peace please let us know what we can do to help.
Love,
PES school family.
Shelli Dubay
July 6, 2021 at 7:18 pmTom made the world a better place. Each of us who knew him was better for knowing him. He was the best at giving hugs and making us feel important. He truly listened to people and loved his family with his whole heart. We miss Tom terribly. Patty, Kyle, Dana, Cole, and Lucy: We love you.
Shelli and Maeve
Dennis and Barbara Calamita Jr
July 6, 2021 at 8:10 pmWe were fortunate to meet Tom at the May family reunion in Va. Our hearts are heavy for the Baker / May families loss. We send our condolences, love and prayers to all of Tom’s friends and family.
Mike May
July 6, 2021 at 8:44 pmTom’s calling came way to early in life . He was a good husband and great father to his kids Tom will be missed by all of us at the May family. Our thoughts are with you and the kids .Talk with ya soon . Love Michael ,Tisha,Hunter and Makenna
Chuck & Pam Torossian
July 6, 2021 at 9:11 pmWe are very sorry to hear of your loss. You are in our prayers.
Adam Tyler
July 6, 2021 at 9:33 pmTom was just so so like-able… you didnt need to see him often to feel like you were really great friends. A day was better if Tom was there. That laugh. I can hear it now. The way his eyes twinkled when he smiled, which was often. A real guy’s guy who made for both a great audience and a great story teller. Thats rare.
Over the years, he gave me a couple pieces of advice that I still refer to regularly. He never knew. I wish he did.
As I’m sure he did many, he always called me “brother”. It felt good.
And as much as I hate to admit Justin Judge is right 😉 well, Justin Judge is right. Tom always parted company by saying with true feeling “lets get together soon…..…brother”
Tony May
July 7, 2021 at 9:32 amI’m so sorry that you are having to go through this. May Jesus hold you close to him though these rough times. Prayers And love for you and your kids at this time.
Dennis and Beverly Calamita
July 7, 2021 at 3:40 pmIt was wonderful meeting Tom in 2017. Beverly and I send our prayers to Patty, his children, family, and close friends.
June May
July 12, 2021 at 12:45 pmPatty, my heart hurts for you, Cole and Lucy. Sending hugs, love and prayers to all of you. May God holds you all in his arms! I love you sis!
Donald Tino
July 17, 2021 at 12:42 amHope you say hi to Miss White for me