Baird, John Michael 'Mike'

John Michael “Mike” Baird was born Sept. 6, 1943, in Fort Worth, Texas to John and Mary Baird. He succumbed to leukemia Thursday morning, Aug. 8, 2013.

To say Mike lived an adventurous life might be an understatement. He was a military veteran, a small-business owner (Modular Furniture Services of Rock Island, Ill.) and a Harley rider, a passion he shared with his much-loved daughter, Amy.

His raw sense of humor and blatant honesty instantly drew you to him - or pushed you away. You were lucky if you chose the former. Mike will be remembered for his generosity and his unwavering loyalty.

He never saw a river he didn't like and preferred to live in a home with a river view. He spent the two years of his cancer battle living in Ely, Iowa with his sister, Barbara, who stood steadfastly in his corner during the entire fight.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, mother and brother, Hugh Edward (Eddie).

He leaves behind his daughter, Amy Baird of Le Claire; his sister, Barbara of Ely; a nephew, Tim Baird of Martin, N.D.; nieces, Emily McNeal of Bristow and Ann Brown-Graff of Cedar Rapids; and several great-nieces and great-nephews. A lot of friends also will miss him.

Funeral Services will be Wednesday, Aug. 14, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary's Church, 415 E. Pleasant Valley St., Sigourney, with burial and luncheon following.

Memorials may be sent to Holm Funeral Home in Sigourney.

Published Aug. 11, 2013 in The Gazette