Richard Dean Baker Jr.

Richard Dean Baker, Jr., 58, of Columbia City, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, November 2, 2025.

Born February 26, 1967, in Jackson, Michigan, he was a son of the late Richard D. and Viola G. (Beauchamp) Baker. Growing up in Jackson, he graduated from Jackson High School in 1985. Joining the U.S. Navy, he served in Japan, two separate deployments in Hawaii, Whibley Island in Washington State, and in San Diego, California. Also served in the Middle East during Desert Shield. He completed his duty at the Great Lakes Naval Station as an instructor. He was honorably discharged in 2005.

On March 21, 1998, he married Tina M. Coyle. They made their first home in Lemon Grove, CA, while Richard served at the San Diego Naval Base. The couple raised four children and, after his Navy service, made Columbia City their home.

Richard went to work for BizTech Strategic Technologies as a senior network system engineer, later moving to All Star Communications.

At home, he enjoyed participating in the virtual world of Second Life, where he became a DJ, gaining worldwide recognition among participants. He recreated the Cascades Falls of Jackson, MI, for all to experience in the virtual world. Growing up in Michigan, he was a die-hard fan of the University of Michigan Wolverines. He followed the games of the Detroit Redwings, Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers; however, the Pittsburgh Steelers was his NFL team of choice, trumping even the Lions.

He is survived by his wife, Tina; children, JC (Brooke Winterrowd) Rosbrugh of North Manchester, Ryan Baker, Stephanie Baker, both of Columbia City and Jennifer Baker of Bourbonnais, IL; grandchildren, GreenLeigh and Avery; a sister, Karen Baker of Jackson, MI and a brother, Michael (Vicki) Baker of Bonham, TX.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a sister, Audrey Baker.

A memorial gathering is scheduled for Saturday (Dec 13th) from 3 to 5 p.m. at Smith & Sons Coachroom, 205 N Main St. Columbia City, with a memorial service to begin at 5 p.m.

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