Michael Ray Baker

Michael (lovingly know as Mike) was born on December 22, 1950, to Patricia and Russell Baker in Galesburg, Illinois. After Mike graduated from Watsonville High School in 1969, where he played baseball and football, he went on to study at Cabrillo College in Aptos, California.

After a year of attendance at Cabrillo College, Mike was drafted into the Army. He served a tour in Vietnam and upon his return was assigned to Infantry Operations at the United States Military Academy located in West Point, New York. Upon completion of his assignment, he returned home to Watsonville, California and began employment with Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E). He traveled extensively while employed with PG&E and settled in Stockton, California. In 1980, Mike began a 30-year career with the Federal Government, General Service Administration (GSA), in Lathrop, California.

Mike attended night classes at San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton, California, where he met his wife, Andrea Tirre Baker, and were married on September 23, 1978.

In 2010, Mike retired from GSA. He was an avid bowler, and enjoyed playing baseball and frisbee golf. It was in his heart to serve others. He was actively involved as a Legionnaire at American Legion Post 121 and President of the Senior Center in Watsonville, California. He loved his Catholic faith and served honorably with the Knights of Columbus, Assembly 3447 Cristeros de Santa Cruz. Mike was also a Cursillista, living his Cursillo in the 1980’s.

Mike was predeceased by his son Jonathan Michael Baker, parents Patricia and Russell, sister Julie, brother Patrick, father-in-law Carlos, Sr., mother-in-law Ramona and brother-in-law Carlos, Jr. He is survived by his wife Andrea, sister Lisa Marie (Gilbert) and brothers James, Jeffrey, Timothy (Jennifer), Brian (Cathy), Steven (Della), brother-in-law Randy and Armando Sr. (Patricia) and sister-in-law Veronica. Mike is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and godchildren, as well as many cherished friends.

As the godfather and uncle to Mark and Julian Barnes, Mike took on the role as their father figure. They credit him for the men they are today. Mike’s legacy lives on in them as they deeply miss him and will forever cherish his memory.