George K. Baeten, age 94, of Farmington Hills, Michigan, passed away on January 24, 2025.

George was born on November 18, 1930, in Denderhoutem, Belgium. He grew up on a farm and worked in his father’s bicycle shop. He participated in two bike races and dreamed of one day racing in the Tour de France. Later, while living in St. Clair Shores, he enjoyed watching bike races at the Cadieux Café.

In 1949, George immigrated to the United States. He arrived at Ellis Island and took a train to Detroit’s Michigan Central Station, where he joined his grandparents before moving into a house on Manistique in Detroit. His first job was with Pepsi-Cola, followed by a position at Bower Roller Bearings as a precision grinder.

George proudly served his country in the 12th Field Artillery Battalion during the Korean War, where he earned his citizenship. He was a devoted veteran and felt a deep sense of commitment to his country.

His greatest joy came from his marriage to the love of his life, Margaret. The two first met at a dance at the Veterans Memorial Building in Detroit, Michigan. George often spoke of his love for Margaret, the deep bond they shared, and how much she meant to him. Together, they built a life filled with love, respect, and happiness.

George enjoyed watching the Red Wings, reading his Bible, savoring chocolate-covered cherries, enjoying a good glass of Brandy, and telling jokes from Reader’s Digest. He was not only a talented yodeler but also an avid writer, with his Christmas cards becoming nothing short of legendary.

His life was marked by dedication, service, and a deep love for his family. He will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

George was the beloved husband of the late Margaret for 50 years. Loving father of Tim Baeten (Ana Freitas), Paul (Elizabeth) Baeten, and the late Nancy McIntosh. Proud grandfather of Kenneth, Katherine, Haley (Brandon), Blair, Colin, and Olivia.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 15th, at 11:00 a.m. with gathering beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 28000 New Market Rd., Farmington Hills. He will be laid to rest with his beloved wife, Margaret, at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan later this year.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in George’s name may be directed to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Lutheran Child and Family Services of Michigan, or the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan.