Michael Loy Baker

Michael Loy Baker, 52, of Carbondale, KS died in the line of duty, Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at Research Medical Center, Kansas City, MO. He was born July 5, 1969 in Cleveland, OH the son of Gene and Judith (Streeter) Baker. Michael was a 1988 graduate of Highland Park High School and worked at Amoco at Holiday Square, then went on to work at Hallmark Cards as a Stock Handler working his way up to supervisor. Michael then received an Associate Degree in Fire Science while serving in the U.S. Air Force. He retired after 20 years of service in the U.S. Air Force and was currently serving as Assistant Fire Chief in the 190 Air Refueling Wing in the Air National Guard. Michael was also a volunteer fire fighter in Carbondale for the past 28 years. His passion was to serve his community and his country. Michael married the love of his life, Leslie (Ortiz) Baker, on August 29, 1992 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. She survives. Other survivors include his three sons, Joshua (Johna) Baker, Jesse (McKynley) Baker, Justin (Sharea) Baker, and a sister Jeanann (Bob) Richardson of Shady Point, OK. Five grandchildren, Bentley Baker, Shaylea Baker, Karsyn Baker, Madalyn Baker and Emberly Baker along with his sixth grandchild that is expected to be born in January. Several nieces and nephews also survive. He was preceded in death by his father, Gene Baker and his mother, Judith (Streeter) Baker. Michael was a true servant to his country and even more to his family. He was a devoted husband, proud father of his sons and loved spoiling his grandchildren. Michael enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time in the outdoors. He will be greatly missed by all. The family will receive friends starting at 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 29, 2021 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with a Parish Rosary concluding the visitation at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, September 30, 2021 at the church. Burial will follow at the Carbondale Cemetery with full military honors being provided by the 190th Air Refueling Wing. In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorial donations be made to the Michael Baker Memorial Fund. These donations will be divided amongst the grandchildren to further their future education. Donations may be left at the church or mailed in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66603.