.jpg)
Bruce Baker
1/24/2024
Bruce Marvin Baker, born on July 17, 1959, departed from this world on January 24, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and remarkable achievements. He was 64 years old.
Bruce's journey was deeply intertwined with the bonds of family, beginning with his marriage to Kathleen Baker on May 6, 2000. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and enduring love.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen, and leaves behind a loving family. Survived by Stepson Alfred "Fritz" G King III, Brother Bradley Nowak Baker (Darlene), Stepdaughter Sarah Lutz, Step Grandchildren Hunter O'Neil, Cheyenne O'Neil, Evelyn King, Freya King, Cole Lutz, Sister-in-Law Nikki Lyons (Dwayne), Brothers-in-Law Robert Maxwell (Laurie), Ronald Maxwell, Thomas Maxwell (Pam), Joseph Weaver.
Bruce was predeceased by Brother Brian Baker, Parents Claude and Joan Baker, Grandmother Trena Bierema Vos, Paternal Grandparents Elmer and Katherine Baker.
Bruce's professional journey began in 1977 when he started working with his Uncle Ray at Baker Engineering while still in high school in Michigan. This early exposure ignited a passion for his work, leading him to open Express Engines in 1985 with his partner John Kaeserman.
Bruce's love for water skiing and camping was shared with his brother, Brad, at Fremont Lake. Their adventures extended to snowmobiling, creating cherished memories that lasted a lifetime.
A graduate of Reeth-Puffer High School, Muskegon, Michigan in 1978, Bruce's dedication and hard work extended beyond his academic achievements. He immersed himself in the world of motorsports, building ASA motors with racing legends Mark Martin and Rusty Wallace. His venture into stockcar racing in the early 1990s was followed by a passion for boat racing in the late 1990s, taking him around the world. Despite numerous world and national championships, Bruce remained a humble force behind the scenes, content in his role as the mastermind.
In celebrating Bruce's life, let us remember the joy he brought to each endeavor and the love he shared with family and friends. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday February 10, 2024, offering friends and family the opportunity to come together and honor Bruce's remarkable life. Visitation hour will start at 10:00 AM with the service beginning at 11:00 AM. The service will be held at Lankford Funeral Home (220 E. New York Ave., DeLand, Florida 32724).
A Livestream of the service will be broadcasted on YouTube at this link: https://youtube.com/live/cu8Gm8xSMp4
The family will be having a gathering following the service at the Fraternal Order of Eagles DeLand 3959 (1330 Yorktown St, DeLand, FL 32724).
Note: There are some audio issues at the start of the stream.