Gerald Anthony "Jay" Baker II

BAKER Gerald Anthony "Jay" Baker II, age 40, of Gahanna, died unexpectedly Saturday, August 1, 2009 in Columbus. He was born November 25, 1968 in Wyandotte, Michigan, son of Gerald Anthony and Carole (Gurskey) Baker. Jay was a special education teacher for Columbus Public Schools and an educator for over 10 years. He was awarded his Juris Doctorate from The Ohio State University in May, 2008. A loving and devoted husband, father, son and brother, he will be greatly missed. Jay was a kind, gentle and loving man whose soul will be with us forever. He is survived by his wife, Michelle Robbins-Baker; son, Sam Baker; step-children, Caleb Robbins and Cassidy Robbins; parents, Gerald and Carole Baker, of Plymouth, Michigan; sister, Doctor Angela (David) Lukomski and their children, Davis and Lindsay; aunts, uncles and cousin; mother-in-law, Beverly Helman and her companion, Jerry Yeater; father-in-law, Michael Helman; sisters-in-law, Teri (Phil) Mallory and Kimberley Helman and her fiance, Josh Griffiths; brother-in-law, Michael Helman; and Michelle's grandmother, Goldie Robinson; other relatives and many friends. Jay was preceded in death by his grandparents Josephine and Charles Gurskey and Margaret and Gordon Baker. Jay received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Michigan and his Master's degree in English and Special Education from The Ohio State University where he was awarded a full fellowship. He was a recipient of the Japan Fulbright Scholarship. He was awarded his Juris Doctorate from O.S.U. College of Law, where he received the following CALI Awards: Highest Grades in Legal Research and Professional Responsibility. An avid reader, Jay loved literature in all forms and was a gifted writer. He was a marathon runner, swimmer and a triathlete, completing a triathalon in 2004. He loved animals, especially cats. Those who wish may contribute to Capital Area Humane Society, 3015 Scioto Darby Executive Ct., Hilliard, Ohio 43026, in his memory. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, August 4, 2009 and 12Noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2009 at SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST CHAPEL, 1051 E. Johnstown Road, Gahanna. A Celebration of Life Service will begin on Wednesday August 5, 2009 at 1 p.m. Private interment at a later date. Visit www.schoedinger.com to send condolences to the family.