Obituary: Walker Baum, 23, of Mears

Walker Garrett Baum, 23, of Mears, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, April 15, 2023. He was born March 20, 2000, in Ludington, the son of Kenneth and Juliann (Middledorf) Baum.

Walker was a graduate of Hart High School, class of 2018. Following high school, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Walker was stationed out of Camp Lejeune in North Carolina, and served two overseas deployments to the Middle East and Japan over four years. He was honorably discharged as a lance corporal in 2022.

Walker enjoyed the outdoors and all it had to offer. He especially enjoyed golfing, fishing, downhill skiing at Crystal Mountain, and had a great talent for photography. Walker was also an avid animal lover, and leaves behind his loyal and faithful dog, Toby.

Walker is survived by: his parents, Kenneth and Juliann Baum; siblings, Wyatt (Heidy) Baum and Kassidy (Caleb) Drenth; paternal grandparents, Ken and Jeanne Baum; maternal grandmother, Martha Middledorf; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.

Walker was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Julius Middledorf.

Memorial services and military funeral honors will be conducted at noon, Saturday, April 22, 2023, at First Baptist Church of Hart, 3258 N 72^nd Avenue, Hart, with a luncheon to follow. The family will receive friends Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with final expenses.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.