Michael J. Baker

Michael Joseph Baker, 56, of Portland, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, at his home on Sunday October 13, 2013. He was surrounded by the comfort of his loving family and pets.

He was born in Portland on August 11, 1957, the son of Edward T. and Louise Beaumier Baker. Michael grew up in the Rosemont area where he resided until his passing. He attended local schools, setting several high school track records while at Deering High School. Michael was a graduate of Southern Maine Technical College and was a successful small business owner in the property management field. An avid outdoorsman, he loved to be at his hunting camp in the mountains, hiking, skiing with his family and friends, or captaining his boat, Dance Floor, on Casco Bay. He was a member of the Centerboard Yacht Club and enjoyed spending time there. One of Michael's greatest achievements was fulfilling his dream of earning his Master Captain's license. He loved to cook and entertain family and friends, and had a special talent for creating a warm lively environment. Michael had a great sense of humor, a big heart, and was generous with his love and kindness. As a devoted father and husband, Michael's greatest pride was his family. From his loving wife, Diane, to their three beautiful daughters, to his large extended family, Michael was and always will be in our hearts.

Michael is predeceased by his father Edward T. Baker.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Diane O'Brion Baker and their three daughters, Nicole Jean, Melissa Inez and Victoria Marie, his mother Louise, his brother Tom Baker and his wife Stephanie of Falmouth; two sisters, Marie Gurall and her husband Kevin of Lakeville, Nancy Baker Miller and her husband Ken of Yarmouth; sisters and brothers in law, Pam and Paul Grant of Portland; Debbie and Doug Miller of Westbrook; Linda and Jim O'Brion of Raymond; and father-in-law James J. O'Brion. Michael was blessed with many nieces and nephews who were fortunate to spend many special times with their Uncle Mike.

Family and friends are invited to attend a time of visitation on Thursday October 17, 2013 from 3 to 8 pm at Jones, Rich & Hutchins Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St. A Celebration of Michael’s Life will be held Friday October 18, 2013 at 11 AM at Williston-Immanual United Church at the corner of High & Deering St., Portland with Rev. Deborah Johnson officiating. Interment will be private. For more information and to leave a tribute in Michael’s memory please visit www.jonesrichandhutchins.com.

The family extends their sincere appreciation for the loving care Michael received at Maine Medical Center's Gibson Pavillion, and for the comfort provided by Hospice of Southern Maine.

Michael had a special love for animals. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent in memory of Michael to the Animal Refuge League in Westbrook or to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) in Windham.