Richard Keith Baer

Richard Keith Baer, 57, passed away while doing one of his favorite things with some of his favorite people on Friday, September 12. He leaves many to grieve his sudden passing. Among them: wife, Linda Baer; children, Mikayla Baer, Michael Baer (Alisha) and Kasey Haedge (Alan); grandson Edward Baer, parents, Dick and Claudine Baer; siblings Mike Baer (Cathy) and Jeanine Martin (Chris), and closest friends, Ron and Amy Long, and many other friends who will mourn his loss. Although Rich accomplished so much during his time with us, he would say that his greatest achievement is his family. Rich found the love of his life in Linda and the meaning of it in his three children. He devoted everything he had to his family, always putting their needs and even wants before his own. He showed Linda what it was like to really be loved, taught Kasey what she deserved and should expect in a husband, raised Mike to inherit his own strong sense of character and gave Mikayla the foundation to become a strong, young woman. Rich was born and raised in northern California, and eventually died in the waters there. He was an avid sportsman, always preferring to be on a boat, in a lake or an ocean, scuba diving, surfing, snorkeling, waterskiing, and if you couldn't find him there you could always find him on the golf course. He gave that love of the water to all three of his children, and it is just one of many things they will always carry with them. When he was old enough, Rich proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard and continued to serve as an officer for the California State Highway Patrol. He was a patriot and a historian at heart. In 1980 he had a chance to start a small business in the Midwest and took it. He worked tirelessly to build it into the success it has become today. Although Rich died at only 57, he lived fully in those years. He loved with his whole heart, and those of us left behind still feel it. He gave selflessly to his family, close friends and those in need. His life touched many and it will not be forgotten. Visitation will be Thursday evening, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Messinger Pinnacle Peak Mortuary, 8555 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church, Cave Creek Road at Pima Road, Carefree, Ariz. The interment will be immediately following the services. There will be a reception following the services at the Country Club at D.C. Ranch. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be directed to the following charity in support of children's school scholarships: San Carlos Indian Reservation, c/o Our Lady's Guild, Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church, 36811 N Pima Road, PO Box 1359, Carefree, AZ 85377. Please indicate "In memory of Rich Baer" on your check.