Brian Baker

Brian Leon Baker, age 57, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away on February 5, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer.

Brian was born on September 13, 1968, to Larry and Alma Schweitzer Baker. Growing up in Topeka, he attended Topeka Public Schools and graduated from his cherished Topeka High School, where he was active in both sports and music, including serving as Drum Major for the Trojan Band. He continued to pursue his passion for music while attending and graduating from Washburn University with a degree in Music Education, also serving as Drum Major for the Washburn University Band.

Following graduation, Brian began his career as a high school band director and taught in several Kansas school districts, including Scott City, Perry/Lecompton, and Marysville. Brian utilized his strengths as an educator to transition into a career in business supply chain, beginning as a buyer for Fleming Foods, followed by a similar position with Alco-Duckwall Corporation in Abilene, Kansas. These experiences afforded him the opportunity to begin his consulting career with Accenture. After several years with Accenture, Brian joined his beloved Deloitte, where he was employed as a Managing Director at the time of his passing.

Next to his commitment to excellence at Deloitte was his enthusiasm for all things golf. He spent many cherished weekends with his golf group, playing as often as possible. He also enjoyed attending golf events and watching the many tournaments throughout the year.

Brian was preceded in death by his father, Larry Baker in October of 2024. He is survived by his wife, Joy Baker, and daughter, Blaire Baker, both of Topeka; his mother, Alma Baker of Topeka; brothers, Mark Baker and his wife Lynette of Kansas City, Missouri, and Scott Baker and his wife, Michelle and daughter, Lizzie of Arvada, Colorado; nephew, Evan Finton of Phoenix, Arizona; along with his brothers and sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and close family friends.

Visitation will be open to all friends and family at Kevin Brennan Funeral Home, 2801 SW Urish Road, Topeka KS 66614, on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Brian's service will follow at 4:00 p.m. that afternoon, February 14, at Grace Point Church.

In lieu of flowers, Brian wished for memorial contributions to be made towards a scholarship fund at Washburn University. In honoring that wish, his daughter, Blaire, worked to create the Brian Baker Legacy Scholarship, ensuring his passion lives on by supporting future performing arts students.

Contributions may be made through the University's website at "wualumni.org" by selecting the "Give" link and choosing fund name Brian Baker Legacy Scholarship. Checks may be made payable to "Washburn University" with Brian Baker Legacy Scholarship noted in memo line.

Condolences may be sent online to www.kevinbrennanfamily.com.