Michele Renee Baker

Michele "Shellie" Renee Baker, 71, passed away September 23, 2025, in Des Moines, Iowa. In her last few weeks, she was attentively cared for by Mercy Hospice in Des Moines, as well as by her sister, Tonya, and brother-in-law, Jeff Gearhart.

A Celebration of Life for Michele will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at the Ramada by Wyndham, 5000 Merle Hay Road, Des Moines, Iowa.

Michele was born on March 5, 1954, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Thomas and Bonnie (Boggs) McDonald.

Shellie was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, cousin, and friend.

Michele worked at Napa Auto Parts and Dee Zee Manufacturing before retiring in 2019. Michele enjoyed camping, decorating her home, celebrating the holidays, the Kansas City Chiefs and, most of all, spending time with her family. Her warmth, laughter, and loving presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her children, Rich (Kristen) Baker, Jeff (Karen) Baker, Joshua (Laura) McDonald, Amber Malloy, and Cody Baker; sister, Tonya (Jeff) Gearhart; brother, Nick (Gayla) McDonald; and many grandkids, great-grandkids, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Bonnie (Boggs) McDonald; husband of 38 years, Richard Baker; daughter, Julie Smith; and niece, Chasity Faith Brayman.