Larry Alan “Lar” Baker, age 57, passed away quietly on Sunday August 10, 2025 in his home surrounded by his loved ones. Born on April 2, 1968, in Flint, Michigan. Larry lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering faith, and deep devotion to his family.
Larry's career path began in multiple welding shops where he learned the skill of welding different materials, thin sheet metal to heavy structural steel. Following the advice of a much older and wiser co-worker Larry pursued an education in skilled trades which included, iron working, and welding. Larry helped build Compuware Build, Sparrow Hospital, Cass Tech High School, Grand River Assembly Plant, and River Rouge. In 2006 Larry accepted a position as a Millwright at the GM Flint Assembly Truck Plant. Known for his skill and work ethic, he earned the respect of everyone he worked with. Colleagues remember him as a kind and gentle man who treated others with dignity and always saw the good in people. He was quick to lend a helping hand – often quietly and without seeking recognition.
At home and in the outdoors, Larry found his greatest joys. He loved fishing, hunting, boating and camping – anything that brought him closer to nature and God. Whether working around the house or casting a line into the water, Larry felt most at peace under open skies. In his younger years, he enjoyed racing dirt bikes and later transitioned to leisure rides on his Harley Davidson. Larry also had a passion for classic cars – collecting, restoring and attending car shows where he could share his appreciation and passion with others.
Larry was a devoted husband to Renay (Varner) Baker, whom he lovingly introduced to everyone as his “Beautiful Bride” throughout their 13 years of marriage. He was a proud father to Anna Baker; Matthew Frezza and his wife Caitlin; Alycia Frezza; and Ada Place and her husband Andrew. His heart swelled with joy when spending time with his grandchildren, Jackson Nicholas Place and Torrey Lynn Frezza.
He is also remembered fondly by his brothers Mike (Nancy) Chambon and Brian (Lisa) Chambon; and his sisters Pam (Doug) Brown and Penny Robbins. Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Laurence and Carol (Smith) Baker.
A man of deep faith, Larry loved the Lord with all his heart. Well-versed in scripture, he never hesitated to share what God had done in his life when given the opportunity. He attended both a Catholic church with his wife and a Nazarene church, finding spiritual community in both places of worship.
Larry’s legacy is one of humility, generosity, faithfulness, and quiet strength – a wonderful provider for his family who lived out his values every day. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire acts of kindness done quietly but powerfully in love.
Visitation and Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, August 26, 2025 with visitation beginning at 11:00am until Mass at 1:00pm at St. John Catholic Church, 404 North Dayton Street, Davison, Michigan. Father Andrew Czajkowski will be the celebrant with rite of committal to follow at St John Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Larry has requested donations be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital and Tunnel of Towers.
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