Thomas Howard Baker

Thomas “Tom” Howard Baker Jr., age 89, passed away peacefully November 16, 2025, in Cheboygan, Michigan. He was born February 19, 1936, in Cheboygan, the son of Tom and Cora (Atwood) Baker. On April 12, 1958, Thomas married Judy Beaugrand.

He served in the National Guard and later as Cheboygan County Drain Commissioner for two years. Tom was also an active member of NADA, the American Legion, the NRA, the Cheboygan Sportsman’s Club, and the Backseat Drivers Club. He began his career at Baker and Company, before working for several years for General Motors. In 1961, he and his brother-in-law Elmer Soullier opened Baker Automotive, which Tom took over in 1968. Known for his lighthearted spirit, he often offered customers a sedative from his backroom “pop” machine before handing them their repair bill. Over the years, he bought and sold more than 7,500 cars.

Outside of work, Tom found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved tending to his yard, collecting old coins and stamps, and owning classic cars, and attending auctions. Every summer, he and Judy camped at Aloha State Park, and each spring they traveled to Florida for several months. No matter how busy life became, they always made time for their Saturday night dates. Tom was a loyal Detroit Lions fan—faithful even through their 0–16 season—and an enthusiastic Elvis admirer, often declaring him “the greatest entertainer that ever lived.”

Tom is survived by his wife Judy; children Christine Dunlap, Mark (Kim) Baker, and Becky (Rex) Noel; siblings Bill Baker and his “favorite sister” Martha (Larry) Brooks; brothers-in-law Bob (Vivian) Beaugrand, Paul Beaugrand, and special sister-in-law Elaine Doner. He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Brianna, David, Madison,Travis, Cory, and Kayla; and great-grandchildren Kaiden, Jonah, Taylor, Bryce, JP, and Kali.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son Tommy; sisters-in-law Joyce Baker and Jean Soullier; and brothers-in-law Elmer Soullier, Ralph Beaugrand, and Jerry Doner.

Honoring his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date with burial to follow. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Michigan Conference for the Blind and The Salvation Army.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Howard Baker, please visit our floral store.