Michael Dean Baker of Warrenton, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family and close friends, on Saturday, June 6, at the age of 78. He was born on May 3, 1948, in Farmington, to the late Robert "Bob" Baker and Evelyn Baker (nee Lupkey).
On June 1, 1968 Mike was united in marriage to Diane Jean Kellerhaus at Friedens United Church of Christ in Warrenton. Together they shared 58 wonderful years, raised two wonderful children and built a life centered on family, faith, and lasting memories.
Mike dedicated his life to law enforcement and public service. He began his career as a police officer with the City of Saint Charles Police Department and later served as a lieutenant with the City of Warrenton Police Department. He concluded his distinguished career as Sheriff of Warren County, serving for 12 years. He lead the community with conviction, fairness, and a bit of humor. During his time as Sheriff, he was nominated to attend the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Peace Officers' Standards and Training (POST) Board. He also attended the National Sheriffs' Institute in Longmont, Colorado, and served as a board member of the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis and the Amber Alert System Commission. Mike devoted his career to serving and protecting others, always putting the well-being and security of his community first.
Beyond his career, Mike found joy in life's simple pleasures, he loved good food and enjoyed dining out. He appreciated music and taught himself to play the guitar. He also enjoyed restoring old guns, sharing morning coffee and conversation with friends at the H&H gun shop, traveling, and watching movies and classic westerns. Above all, he cherished time with his children and grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Gary Colbert and Tom Cox. He is lovingly survived by his wife, Diane; his children, Michele Wood (Ted) of Weldon Spring and Scott Baker (Christina) of Front Royal, Virginia; his grandchildren, Carson Wood, Parker Wood, Camden Wood, Lilia Baker, Ben Baker (Juliet), Agnes Babecka (Joseph), Gianna Henley (Matthew), Padraig Baker, Breandan Baker, Liam Baker, Joe Baker, John Paul Baker, and Zelie Baker; five great-grandchildren; His sister, Patricia Gale Cox; his sisters-in-law, Linda Colbert and Midge Kellerhaus; and many extended family members and life long friends. He will be remembered for his life of service, his devotion to family, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew and loved him.
A visitation will be held at Martin Funeral Home in Warrenton, from 4 P.M. - 7 P.M. on Thursday, June 11. A funeral service will be held Friday, June 12 beginning at 10 A.M. also at Martin Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to BackStoppers.
