Michael Martin Baker

Michael Martin Baker, age 35, passed to his next world on Feb 10, 2024. Michael was born June 8, 1988 in Durham, NC to Martin E Baker and Leslie Robson-Baker. When he was 3, the family moved to Hutto, Texas. For the majority of his life, Michael lived in, and loved, Austin.
After graduating from Anderson High School, Michael faced some great difficulties in his life and fought very hard to overcome them. His success was inspirational. He was finally living the positive life he had always wanted and was truly looking forward to his future.
As a child, Michael knew that he wanted to help people. As soon as he could, he jumped into the opportunity, pouring himself into the recovery community. In addition to holding multiple jobs (he made serving tables an art form), he was going to school to become an addictions counselor. He was very excited for his career choice and enjoyed getting top marks in his classes.
To say Michael had a big heart is to downplay the size of it. He had an infectious positive energy that drew people to him. He cared deeply for others and would do whatever it took to help those in need. In turn, many quickly came to love and care for him. He had a large and devoted circle of friends.
In addition to family, friends and Austin, Michael loved the outdoors and had an amazing understanding of where his body was in space. He loved to skateboard and go bouldering. He had the opportunity to learn how to snowboard and proved that maybe there ought to be snowy mountains closer to Austin. In the summer he was in the water, except when he came out to dive. He was a friend, brother, son, counselor, and cheerleader. He was highly intelligent, loved learning and was a deep (and opinionated) thinker. He was a sports fan, loved good food, playing Poker (especially Texas hold 'em) and beating everyone at chess.
If ever there were a candidate for a guardian angel, Michael qualifies. Lucky are the people he will watch over.
He will be missed deeply.
Surviving are his parents, sister Anna Baker and half-siblings Liam and Sophie Gompf.
A gathering of family & friends for Michael will be held Saturday, February 24, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Cook Walden Funeral Home, 6100 N. Lamar Blvd, Texas 78752, followed by a celebration of life gathering at 2:00 PM.