Gary William Baker's Obituary
Gary William Baker, age 83, of Canadian Lakes, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026.
Born on July 15, 1943, in Royal Oak, Michigan, Gary was the son of Andrew and Eileen Baker. He was a devoted husband, loving stepfather, proud papa, cherished brother, uncle, and a dear friend to many. Gary lived a life filled with adventure, accomplishment, generosity, and an unwavering love for family.
Raised in Royal Oak, Gary excelled as a student-athlete, earning varsity letters in both basketball and track while attending Dondero High School. He continued his basketball career at Central Michigan University before answering the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. During his honorable service, Gary was stationed in Germany, where he purchased a Volkswagen and spent his leave traveling throughout Europe, beginning a lifelong passion for exploring the world.
Upon returning home to Michigan, Gary built an impressive career as an automotive design engineer. His dedication, innovation, and leadership led him to become Vice President of Autodynamics Corporation and later Chief Executive Officer of Porsche Delta Engineering. Throughout his professional career, Gary earned the respect and admiration of colleagues throughout the automotive industry.
It was during those years that Gary met the love of his life, Kathleen “Kitty” Baker. Together they shared nearly 30 wonderful years of marriage, creating homes filled with laughter, hospitality, and treasured memories in both Canadian Lakes, Michigan, and Fairfield Glades, Tennessee. Whether hosting family and friends or gathering everyone together for celebrations, Gary found great joy in bringing people together.
A gifted athlete throughout his life, Gary remained an avid sports fan, car enthusiast, and passionate golfer. His love of travel and golf took him to many remarkable destinations, including St. Andrews in Scotland, Hawaii, Myrtle Beach—where he proudly celebrated a hole-in-one—and the Olympic Games in Greece. Gary and Kitty also enjoyed traveling throughout Europe with her daughter, Kristen.
Gary’s greatest joy, however, was being “Papa.” He delighted in sharing his passions with his grandchildren, Emma and Ethan, arranging golf lessons for them in Canadian Lakes, taking them on rock-hunting adventures, giving them golf cart driving lessons, and proudly cheering them on as their biggest fan at countless competitions. His love, encouragement, and gentle guidance created memories they will carry with them forever.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Eileen Baker, and his brother, Thomas Baker.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Kathleen “Kitty” Baker; his stepdaughter, Kristin Bowler, and step son-in-law, Bill Bowler; his beloved grandchildren, Emma and Ethan Bowler; his brother and sister-in-law, Russell and Lynn Baker; his sisters and brother-in-law, Patricia Livy and Robert and Diane Webster; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and countless dear friends.
A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Janowicz Family Funeral Home in Remus.
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