At John's request, his body was donated to UAB for scientific research. His family and friends will celebrate his life as they gather from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 20, 2024 at Ridout's Southern Heritage, 475 Cahaba Valley Road, Pelham, AL 35124.
John is predeceased by his parents, John and Hazel Baumgartner; his brother, James; and son, John Baumgartner. He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Jean Henke-Baumgartner; daughter, Carolyn Baumgartner; son, Clyde Deaver Baumgartner (Rita); his brother, Bob Baumgartner (Ann); step-sons, Allen and Bill (LuAnne) Henke; several grandchildren, Gary Baumgartner (Kristen), Kyle Baumgartner (Kim), Kati Cook, Clyde Baumgartner, Jr. (Lindsay), Bill Henke (Toree), and Garrett Henke; as well as several great-grandchildren.
John was an incredible athlete in football and baseball. He still holds the record at Legion Field in Birmingham for the longest goal to goal punt, but baseball was his passion! He began his career in the minor leagues and made it to the "Big Show" playing 3rd base for the Detroit Tigers. He retired from baseball to a business career, and carried on his athletic prowess on the golf course.
John was bigger than life to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a family legend with lots of great stories and was loved by all!
The family requests that memorial gifts be made to the Alzheimer's Association Alabama Chapter, Birmingham Office. Please give at www.alz.org/al or mail contributions to 1 Metroplex Drive, Suite 230, Birmingham, AL 35209.
