Ralph Wayne Baird

Ralph Wayne Baird, born on May 26, 1949, in Hackensack, New Jersey, passed away on May 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Ralph will be remembered as a husband, father, grandfather, and a steady presence in the lives of all who knew him.

Ralph graduated from Brien McMahon High School in Norwalk, Connecticut, and continued his education at the Colorado School of Mines, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Geophysical Engineering in 1971. He did graduate studies at the University of Tulsa, the Oklahoma State University, and the University of Houston.

He was a licensed Professional Engineer in the state of Colorado and a licensed Professional Geoscientist in the state of Texas. Ralph held numerous additional professional certifications and was an active member of many local, national, and international learned and professional societies. In addition to his engineering and geoscience career, he was a licensed commercial pilot and a licensed amateur radio operator. In 1978, he founded Baird Petrophysical International, building a respected career through hard work, vision, and dedication. He took great pride in his work and the legacy he created throughout his professional life.

In 2005, Ralph was called to contribute his expertise to a missing persons case alongside other volunteers with Texas EquuSearch. What began as a single deployment grew into years of dedicated service, as he continued volunteering his time and unique skills on countless searches. He was committed to helping bring resolution and closure to families of missing or endangered loved ones.

Although he was a dedicated professional, he will be lovingly remembered for his contributions to his family. He never forgot a birthday and always personalized cards with his unique and playful doodles and notes. He enjoyed decorating cakes with the personal interests of his children and calling them to sing Happy Birthday to celebrate their birthdays.

He is survived by his wife and soulmate, Maureen Callaghan; his children, Lori Baird (Frank Teunissen), Melissa Clifford (Eric), Tiffany Merenda (FJ), April Franzman (Brian), and Colby Baird; and his stepson, Kyle Mullin. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Lindsey Ketterer, Jordan Clifford, Jocelyn Clifford, Bailey Eaton, Mason Merenda, Brynne Eaton, Tyler Merenda, Blakeley Merenda, and Otis Franzman. Ralph is also survived by his brother, Glenn Baird, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion Baird and Ralph H. Baird.

Ralph’s life was marked by dedication to his family, his career, and his service to others. His strength, warmth, and sense of humor will be cherished forever by those fortunate enough to know him.

Though he is gone from our sight, his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

He will be deeply missed and remembered always.