Robert Baird

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Robert "Bob" Harry Lamar Baird, born May 3, 1932, in Philadelphia, PA, had a laugh that could fill a room, a twinkle in his eye that hinted at mischief. 

In his younger days, he was a roller-skating dancer, a hobby that undoubtedly contributed to his grace when he navigated the choppy waters of the accounting world as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for over 45 years. Robert, who was self-employed and retired in 2016, was as much at home with a spreadsheet as he was with a sailboat or a camera lens. He passed away on March 17, 2025 at Joplin Gardens in Joplin, MO.

A man of many passions, Robert loved classical music and sailing. He took great joy in creating intricate boat-in-a-bottle models, and model airplanes that were a testament to his attention to detail and patience. He also had a knack for photography, a talent that allowed him to capture life's fleeting moments and preserve them for posterity. He was a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Despite his numerous interests and achievements, what mattered most to Robert was his wife, Deborah, whom he married on August 24, 1963. They were inseparable, living in Philadelphia, Dallas, and Parkhill, OK, where they had a lake house for a time.

Robert is survived by his beloved wife Deborah; his sons Stewart (Christine) Baird of Webb City, and Robert (Aimee) Baird of Brigham City, UT; his sister Alice (Tom) Ziemba of Hershey, PA; and grandchildren Callum, Ian, Jacob, Ethan and Andrew Baird. He was preceded in death by his father Robert Baird; mother Shirley Baird; son Bruce Baird; and brother Dirk Baird.

A graveside committal will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 11:00 am CDT at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery located at 5201 South Southwood Road in Springfield, MO with Chaplain Kyle Beverlin officiating.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home. The Baird family encourages relatives and friends to visit www.simpsonfh.com to share photos and memories of Robert.