Melvin Bradley Baker, lovingly known as Brad and/or Merlin, passed away on September 5, 2025, in Provo, Utah. He was fighting a brave battle with cancer, but ultimately lost his battle due to complications of pneumonia. He was born on April 29, 1955, to Melvin B. and Iva Lazenby Baker and was the second of four children. Brad graduated from Payson High School.
On March 23, 1979, Brad married the love of his life, Kathy Hansen, in Spanish Fork, Utah. They were later sealed for time and all eternity in the Provo, Utah Temple. Together they raised four children: Brady, Colby, Aimee, and Ashlee. Despite physical limitations, Brad worked tirelessly to support his family as a miner, exemplifying determination and hard work.
Brad was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he served faithfully in many roles including Clerk, Executive Secretary, and various callings in Primary—his favorite. He was always willing to serve wherever he was needed.
Known for his playful spirit and love of children, Brad brought joy to many by giving wheelchair rides, picking up and dropping pennies for laughs on the way to see the pigs, and handing out his signature treats—Smarties and Life Savers.
Brad especially cherished time spent at the ballpark cheering on his grandchildren, supporting every team, and offering “good-natured” heckling to anyone within earshot — umpires included.
He had a passion for collecting coins, hats, rocks, watches and more. Brad also enjoyed oil painting, pin trading, traveling, riding rollercoasters, and making memories on family trips to Disneyland.
Brad is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Kathy; their children: Brady Baker, Colby (Cheryl) Baker, Aimee Stringer, and Ashlee (Clint) Braithwaite; and their grandchildren: Alexys, Aris, Makenzie, Aalya, Cambree, Aiden, Evan, Scarlett, Teegan, Trey, and Tinlee. He is also survived by his siblings: Trena (Pete) Zaccardi and Gary (Cindy) Baker. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lynda Fuller.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 482 West 1400 South, Payson, Utah. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the church. An additional viewing will take place on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 587 South 100 West, Payson, Utah. Brad will be laid to rest at the Payson Cemetery, 400 N 800 E, Payson, Utah.
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