Birth date: Jun 28, 1949 Death date: Oct 14, 2025
Bruce Baker, age 76, of Grand Haven passed away Tuesday, October 14, 2025. He was born June 28, 1949, in Grand Haven to John Douglas and Katharine (Hall) Baker. Bruce attended Spring Lake schools, graduated High School from Culver Read Obituary
It was lovely reading the posts about Bruce, seeing how his easy going nature had touch so many other lives. "The Bake's" lived around the corner from us early in life. Our parents were very close friends for decades, so were the kids, matched in age. I was six years younger than the youngest though, skinny, and pretty shy. When some turbulence hit as a teenager, I would stop by to see Bruce and Tory, smiles and hugs at the door. What I remember most is the kindness I felt, the silent understanding. I didn't have to say anything at all specific about what I was going through. It was as if they just knew. The room was warm, and kind, and peaceful, and sweet. And I can still hear Bruce's soothing voice. I'm so sad for your loss, but may your memories heal, and your hearts be filled. Love, Barbara (Boo)
Bruce would stop at my restaurant from time to time. I remember that he loved Split Pea Soup with Mettwurst of course. I do believe he was the one who introduced me to Mettwurst. We often had great conversations about Grand Haven history. I remember stopping into his office to share old photos and postcards. My condolences to his family.
Bruce was working backstage for Chicago at LLT here in Ajijic, Mexico where he graced us with his visits. It was my first musical so I was very nervous. We had a high kick in the dance, and right before I went on, I didn't even think, wanting to get one more kick in before going on stage, and I put my hand on the shoulder of a man I didn't know other than to say hello. He put his hand on top of my mine and indicated that I should do another. The next night I was preparing to go on again, and Bruce turned his back and pointed to his shoulder. It was our nightly ritual, and our friendship developed. I always loved the look on his face when he saw me; he made me feel so special. I hope he felt the same way when I looked at him.
He will always be part of my best story in Mexico. Love you, Bruce.
My thoughts and condolences to Chris, Dan and Annie -- it's been many years since we met during the early seasons of the GH/SL "JV" hockey team, on which John and Dan were teammates. Bruce and I often had pleasant (and profound) discussions during the games' intermissions. Occasionally our paths also crossed at the GH post office and he always wanted to catch up on how everyone was doing. I think he also may have coached my daughter Jane in AYSO soccer for one or two seasons. He impressed me with his philosophy for coaching kids: are we having fun?
I hope that time will eventually help you to heal from the current loss of his love and kindness and to be inspired by your memories of him.
Mr Baker will be deeply missed. He brought a smile to everyone who met him. My oldest two children attended Lake Hills and loved seeing him everyday
My thoughts and condolences to Chris, Dan and Ann on the passing of Bruce. It's been a long time since the days of the GH/SL "JV" hockey team, but I'll always remember the pleasant conversations with Bruce during the intermissions of the games which our sons were playing. And, on occasion our paths crossed at the GH post office and we would catch up with each other and our families. I'm sure that he is missed and will be always remembered by you.
Bruce's had the "James Earl Jones voice" in the Tri-Cities area! He was theeeee most kindest person. He was genuinely interested in your conversation with him. Bruce was the role model of commitment to his community!
