David M. "Dave" Baird

BAIRD, David M. "Dave"

A longtime resident of Tucson, AZ, age 89, passed away on November 20, 2021 in Phoenix, AZ. He was born on a dairy farm in Coshocton County, Ohio, to a hard-working family. Dave was the oldest son of James P. Baird and Mary (Fowler) Baird. Being raised on a dairy farm came with the responsibility of milking cows and tending to farm chores, which took precedence both before and after school. After graduating from West Lafayette High School, Dave attended The Ohio State University, where the skills learned on the farm helped pay for his education. He lived and worked at the campus dairy, again milking the herd as part of his daily school routine. Dave earned his agriculture degree and completed the ROTC program, allowing him to be commissioned into the United States Air Force as an officer, which enabled him to pursue his passion for flying.

Dave proudly spent 24 years in the Air Force serving our country while traveling the world, rising to the rank of full Colonel. Some of his highlights while serving in the Air Force included: being a C-130 pilot, spending four years at the Pentagon, and being Deputy Commander of Operations for the 432nd Tactical Drone Squadron. After his retirement from the Air Force, Dave began a second career at Flight Safety International as a Learjet Instructor for 17 years. One of the highlights of his Learjet years, was flying donated organs to transplant recipients in need.

Dave had many passions outside of work. He was a physical fitness enthusiast who enjoyed running and working out as part of his daily routine. He enjoyed the beauty of Arizona, in particular the Grand Canyon. His love for the Grand Canyon included four hiking trips and a rafting trip down the Colorado River. In addition, early on Dave coached his kid's softball and soccer teams and later was an active part of the Tucson community. He served for many years as HOA president of Bel Air Ranch Estates, was a member of The Ohio State Alumni Club, and was an active volunteer at Christ Church United Methodist.

Dave was a father who always made sure his children knew how proud he was of them and how much they were loved. He is survived by his brother, Dale Baird of Columbus,OH; children, John (Leslie) Baird of Peoria, AZ, Jim Baird of Phoenix, AZ, Jackie (Chris) Banker of Phoenix, AZ and grandchildren, Emily, Michael and Jack.

A brief Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 31, 2022 at the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at Marana, 15950 N. Luckett Rd., Marana, AZ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans at https://www.dav.org/

Arrangements by HERITAGE FUNERAL CHAPEL, Peoria, AZ, (623) 974-3671.