Michael James (Mick) Baughman
Longtime local attorney Michael James (Mick) Baughman died Nov. 4, 2022, at the age of 94.
A member of the first Holy Communion Class at Queen Miraculous Medal, Baughman was a graduate of St. Mary's High School, where he was a member of the football team that won the Catholic League of Southern Michigan Championship in 1946.
He spent two years at Jackson Junior College and then earned his B.A. from Albion College, before earning his LLB at the University of Michigan. During law school he met his wife of 51 years, Julia Barbara Ross. Although very different, they were a perfect fit providing a model for all to emulate; a long and loving relationship.
In 1957 Baughman returned to Jackson and partnered with Luther Pahl in a general practice.
He practiced law for over 60 years during which he served as president of the Jackson County Bar Association in 1976 and a short term as a Circuit Court judge. He was highly regarded by his colleagues as well as adversaries. One long-time friend and a fellow lawyer, described him as a “gentleman's gentleman.”
A lifelong resident of Jackson and proud member of the community, Baughman was active in the Rotary Club for several decades.
In 1968, he was elected trustee of Jackson Community College and served on that board for 30 years, working on development and financial planning. During his tenure, he helped oversee construction of the Potter Center, and one of the theaters in the center is named for him. He was an enthusiast for all the arts including music, film, and theater, and an avid reader.
He also served on the board of Jackson Storyfest and was involved with the Human Rights Commission, NAACP, the Interfaith Shelter of Jackson, and numerous other community organizations.
Baughman biked and walked all over Jackson for decades; and rode in the Dick Allen Lansing to Mackinac (DALMAC) Bike Tour (including several quad-century rides) for more than 25 years; and also participated in Senior Olympics biking events for several years. As a model of health and vitality, there was one exception: his affection for sweets, especially those sold at his favorite bakery, Hinkley's.
He is survived by his sister, Ann Acker, and children, Michael James Baughman, Jr (Deborah), Patrick O'Connell Baughman, Daniel Ross Baughman (Victoria), Catherine Marie Savela, and Ann Elizabeth Baughman (Chuck Robbins). Being a grandfather brought Mick great joy and he will be fondly remembered by his eight grandchildren, Michael James Baughman III AKA Trey, Connor Baughman, Drew Baughman, Jaden Baughman, Anthony Savela, Andrew Savela, Marnie Savela, and Colin Robbins. He had four “additional grandchildren” who lived next door, Lucas Hollow, Olivia Varney, Logan Hollow, and Landon Hollow, and is survived by 25 beloved nieces and nephews as well as cherished grand and great grand nieces and nephews.
Baughman was preceded in death by his wife, Julia, parents Leo and Mary, brother Thomas, sisters Jean Vainner and Mary Ruth Beach, brothers-in-law, Joseph Vainner, George Beach, and Aaron Acker.
Visitation will take place 6 - 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 16, at Desnoyer Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Star of the Sea, Jackson, 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 17, followed by a luncheon at Jackson College.
In lieu of flowers, the family would welcome donations to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Jackson County, Freshwater Future, and Jackson College.
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