Michael Alan Baker

Michael Alan Baker, 52, passed away unexpectedly but comfortably in his home on April 16, 2025, in Columbus, Ohio. He was born on May 28, 1972, in Canton, Ohio.

Mike is survived by his wife of nearly 24 years, Kristy (Bevington), daughter Amanda and son Benjamin of Columbus, Ohio; his parents Joseph and Carol Baker of Louisville, Ohio; his sister Kim (Erik) Wilson of Canton, Ohio; his brother Matt (Toni) Baker of Louisville, Ohio; his parents-in-law Richard and Mary Ann Bevington of Sandusky, Ohio; his brother-in-law Mark (Kate) Bevington of Canton, Michigan; and nieces and nephews Kayla, Logan, Luke, Eva, Maggie, Jake, Jude and Levi.

After graduating from Louisville High in 1990, Mike realized his childhood dream by earning a spot to play nose guard for The Ohio State Buckeyes in the 1992-1994 seasons. He was a proud member of the 1993 Big10 Championship team and wore his ring with pride for the remainder of his life. He graduated with his BA in 1995.

Mike, or Bakes as he was affectionately known, did what every good English major does and made his career in accounting. Starting at Ohio Farm Bureau, Mike made his way back to Ohio State to work at OSURF and the Office of the Controller, finally landing at Columbus Hospitality Management.

Much of Mike’s greatest joy came from his family. From singing the kids to sleep as babies to teaching them to drive, he loved every moment of being a dad. He was the loudest cheerleader in the stands at marching band competitions or while running Game Changer at baseball games. Whether digging for shells on a beach vacation or road tripping around the Grand Canyon, he created the happiest of family memories that will be cherished forever.

As a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur, Mike enjoyed researching options in any new city he visited and could always be counted on to have local suggestions for the baseball families at tournaments. He rarely made a trip home from Canton to Columbus without his beloved Pizza Oven packed in the car for later.

Mike’s intimidating stature belied the gentle soul within. He enjoyed socializing with friends and family, was happy to lend a helping hand and was always ready to make people laugh. He enjoyed time spent on the golf course, both actual and Golden Tee. But most days, he was just as content sitting in the sunroom and watching for hummingbirds. No matter the circumstance, he found joy in the world around him.

We ask that you remember Mike not as having a life too short, but for the way it was lived and the impact he had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Please bring your fondest memories and stories of shenanigans to join for a Viewing and Celebration of Life Open House Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 1:00 – 4:00pm at Tidd Funeral Home, Dublin-Plain City Chapel, 9720 SR 161, Plain City, OH 43026.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to be made to Kristy to support Mandy and Ben’s college educations and extracurriculars.

Please visit www.tiddfuneralhomes.com to send your condolences.

`