Michael Allen Baer

Michael Allen Baer, ESQ died unexpectedly yet peacefully on the morning of July 2nd, 2021 at his home in Troy, Ohio.  Son of Dale Owen and Helen Marjorie (Marge) Baer, he was born May 18th, 1946 in Celina, Ohio.  An outstanding and honored athlete in both football and baseball, Mike also “stole the show”, taking the lead in many high school musical productions.  His many talents led him to The Ohio State University, where he majored in sociology and political science (1969). While ostensibly studying, Mike met future wife Carol (nee Ingalls).  While serving our nation abroad (1969-71), Mike returned to marry Carol, whisking her away to Munich, Germany for their first year of marriage.  After serving honorably, Mike returned once again to The Ohio State University College of Law, graduating with honors in 1974.   

Desiring closeness to both sets of parents, Mike and Carol moved to Miami County’s seat, Troy, in 1974 to begin their family and careers (but not before a three-month backpacking adventure through Europe, from 300 miles north of the Arctic Circle to the Sahara). Mike, a founding partner of Dungan and LeFevre, established himself again with excellence, becoming Board Certified in 1991 and being named an original Ohio “SuperLawyer” (2006).  Passionate about community service as well, Mike served in many capacities, including Troy’s “Dollars for Scholars” Board, Miami County Housing Authority Board (over 30 years), Miami County Ethics and Grievance Committee Bar Counsel (over 30 years), and often giving generously and anonymously to help others, both formally and informally.  Beloved by many, Mike thoroughly enjoyed hiking (in his early years), music, golf, photography, travel, “the classics” (literature, music) and – above all – quality time spent with family, friends, and loved ones.  On his desk was a saying from a client, a motto he lived by: “Be kinder than necessary, for everyone is fighting some kind of battle.” His legacy of excellence, integrity, generosity, and kindness will ripple far beyond his 75 years: we are blessed to call him father, friend, husband – in short, a wonderful man.  

In addition to innumerable friends and wonderful extended family, Mike is survived by wife Carol Elaine (Ingalls) Baer and daughter Erica Susan Baer, both of Troy. Mike was preceded in death not only by his parents, but also by his brother, Eric Warren Baer (1977) and an infant daughter, Allison Ingalls Baer (born and died on Fathers’ Day, June 17th, 1984).   

Service Times: Visitation will occur from 2:00-6:00pm on Monday, July 5th with our memorial service on Tuesday, July 6th from 10:30-11:30. Both visitation and service will occur at Baird Funeral Home in Troy.  

Remembrance: In lieu of flowers (or food), Michael and family request that donations be made to any of the following: Doctors Without Borders (PO Box 5030, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5030); St. Patrick’s Soup Kitchen, 25 N. Mulberry St., Troy, OH 45373; or The Future Begins Today, 305 W. Staunton Rd., Troy, OH 45373.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at: www.bairdfuneralhome.com.