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Baker

In Loving Memory

Baker, Howard Max

Saturday, March 26, 2022.

Beloved father of John (Beth), Rachel and Cody Baker; loving grandfather of Jonathan, Nicholas, Zoe, Kayson and Zavier; dear brother of Sharon (Keith) Topolski, Craig Baker and the late Michael Baker. Our dearest uncle, great-uncle and friend to many.

Max was known for his amazing guitar prowess but, equally as well for his stage presence. He personified the term showman with his sassy moves and his charm and wit. Max had a kind heart and a humble spirit. He will be missed terribly by his family and friends.

“Sail On”

Visitation at Kutis Affton Chapel 10151 Gravois Rd. 63123 on Friday, April 1 from 4-9 pm. with Funeral Service time at 8:00 pm. Interment will be held in private.

Condolences

157 thoughts on “Baker, Howard Max”

  1. I am at a loss as are many. Max was a “best” friend and we shared many a good time with our kids and friends. My sincere sympathy to John (Beth), Rachel Cody, and Max’s grandchildren, and all of the Mama’s Pride families.
    See you on the other side my brother…

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  2. I am at a loss as are many. Max was a “best” friend and we shared many a good time with our kids and friends. My sincere sympathy to John (Beth), Rachel Cody, and Max’s grandchildren, and all of the Mama’s Pride families.
    See you on the other side my brother…

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  3. Rachel and family – I am so sorry for your loss. I know you miss him terribly and the days and years ahead will be so hard. My prayers are with all of you and I know you will carry his spirit with you.

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  4. Rachel and family – I am so sorry for your loss. I know you miss him terribly and the days and years ahead will be so hard. My prayers are with all of you and I know you will carry his spirit with you.

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  5. Max was one of the finest guitar players I have ever known. RIP Max you are missed by so many people until you guys play again we will miss you dearly…….

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  6. Max was one of the finest guitar players I have ever known. RIP Max you are missed by so many people until you guys play again we will miss you dearly…….

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  7. Max was one of the kindest people I have had the pleasure to meet. I am proud to have known him. My heart aches for his family and band mates during this very difficult time. Truly a gentle soul who will be missed by many.

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  8. Max was one of the kindest people I have had the pleasure to meet. I am proud to have known him. My heart aches for his family and band mates during this very difficult time. Truly a gentle soul who will be missed by many.

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  9. Remembering his smile and laughter. So quick to make us smile. So many good times when he was Playing with Roland and the Band. My heart goes out to each of the family. Sending Prayers, and much Love.

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  10. Remembering his smile and laughter. So quick to make us smile. So many good times when he was Playing with Roland and the Band. My heart goes out to each of the family. Sending Prayers, and much Love.

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  11. Tenderly may time heal your sorrow, Gently may friends ease your pain, Softly may peace replace heartaches, and may warmest memories remain.

    Deepest condolences, Sail on Max.

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  12. Tenderly may time heal your sorrow, Gently may friends ease your pain, Softly may peace replace heartaches, and may warmest memories remain.

    Deepest condolences, Sail on Max.

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  13. Although I have not laid eyes on you for many years, I take comfort in my last conversation with you a few weeks ago. We told each other that we loved one another. I know you meant it. Sail on my brother until I see you on that other shore. No more sorrow and no more shame and no more pain…
    Love you
    David

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  14. Although I have not laid eyes on you for many years, I take comfort in my last conversation with you a few weeks ago. We told each other that we loved one another. I know you meant it. Sail on my brother until I see you on that other shore. No more sorrow and no more shame and no more pain…
    Love you
    David

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  15. Such a special talent and better person. The memories you helped to create in my life will never fade. The music is timeless and forever and so are you. No more pain. Love you Max.

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  16. Such a special talent and better person. The memories you helped to create in my life will never fade. The music is timeless and forever and so are you. No more pain. Love you Max.

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  17. Max, your legacy of awesome talent and showmanship will be known for generations to come. Especially in your hometown, you will always be the pride of St Louis. For those of us who have been fans from the start, your music will live forever in our hearts. The music in heaven is a bit more soulful today. Sending my heartfelt condolences to your family, your dearest friends, and your band of brothers. Rest easy and rock in peace.

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  18. Max, your legacy of awesome talent and showmanship will be known for generations to come. Especially in your hometown, you will always be the pride of St Louis. For those of us who have been fans from the start, your music will live forever in our hearts. The music in heaven is a bit more soulful today. Sending my heartfelt condolences to your family, your dearest friends, and your band of brothers. Rest easy and rock in peace.

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  19. I heard about this late the other night, and I was crushed, because it has been a couple of years since I have seen you, and I wish I had the opportunity to tell you that I loved you one more time. You were the soundtrack of my life, and I was humbled to be your friend. I’m happy for your rest in God.
    My deepest sympathy for all of his family, including the members of Mama’s Pride. I love you all. ♥️

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  20. I heard about this late the other night, and I was crushed, because it has been a couple of years since I have seen you, and I wish I had the opportunity to tell you that I loved you one more time. You were the soundtrack of my life, and I was humbled to be your friend. I’m happy for your rest in God.
    My deepest sympathy for all of his family, including the members of Mama’s Pride. I love you all. ♥️

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  21. Many good times at Rusty Springs Salon and at Grand Mas House and the Pagent you will be missed by many Sail on God Bless

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  22. Many good times at Rusty Springs Salon and at Grand Mas House and the Pagent you will be missed by many Sail on God Bless

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  23. Long time fan from the days MP played in Tampa back in the 70s. Max was a funny and kind soul and extremely talented. This one is rough…irreplaceable

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  24. Long time fan from the days MP played in Tampa back in the 70s. Max was a funny and kind soul and extremely talented. This one is rough…irreplaceable

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  25. I’m starting to know what it’s like to have a grave yard as a friend ,heavens a funnier place with max up there

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  26. I’m starting to know what it’s like to have a grave yard as a friend ,heavens a funnier place with max up there

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  27. It was an honor to wipe down your guitar and be a Mama’s Pride brother. Love and condolences from me and Mary.

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  28. It was an honor to wipe down your guitar and be a Mama’s Pride brother. Love and condolences from me and Mary.

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  29. You can rest in Peace now brother, you have paid your final dues. Thank you for being part of the great memories and moments we shared with our brothers on the road, and through the years. I pray your family is comforted by the kind words and comments made here by the people whose lives you impacted.

    Goodbyes are not the end, they simply mean, until we meet again.

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  30. You can rest in Peace now brother, you have paid your final dues. Thank you for being part of the great memories and moments we shared with our brothers on the road, and through the years. I pray your family is comforted by the kind words and comments made here by the people whose lives you impacted.

    Goodbyes are not the end, they simply mean, until we meet again.

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  31. It was so cool to know you. I was a roadie for a band that got the honor to open up for Mama’s Pride many times. We hung out with some good herb and great times. Fly on my brother!!

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  32. It was so cool to know you. I was a roadie for a band that got the honor to open up for Mama’s Pride many times. We hung out with some good herb and great times. Fly on my brother!!

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  33. To Max’s family, friends, legions of fans and the Mama’s Pride family, heartfelt condolences to one of the best there ever was. “Sail On”….

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  34. To Max’s family, friends, legions of fans and the Mama’s Pride family, heartfelt condolences to one of the best there ever was. “Sail On”….

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  35. To Rachel, and all of Max’s family. Sending our deepest sympathy to you all, Max will never be forgotten by any who knew him! He was definitely one of a kind! R.I.P. Max

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  36. To Rachel, and all of Max’s family. Sending our deepest sympathy to you all, Max will never be forgotten by any who knew him! He was definitely one of a kind! R.I.P. Max

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  37. Howard I loved you the moment I met you. I knew your pain and the strength which you showed the world even at your saddest. You are an amazing eternal soul, and will be sorely missed by all who love you. Godspeed my friend. See you on the other side.

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  38. Howard I loved you the moment I met you. I knew your pain and the strength which you showed the world even at your saddest. You are an amazing eternal soul, and will be sorely missed by all who love you. Godspeed my friend. See you on the other side.

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  39. I know you are upstairs playing in the big band in the sky. I was so glad when you told me that you had been reading my daily words on FB and it was just what you needed spiritually. God has got you now and that’s a good thing. Miss you my brother. Love always – Bro.C.

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  40. I know you are upstairs playing in the big band in the sky. I was so glad when you told me that you had been reading my daily words on FB and it was just what you needed spiritually. God has got you now and that’s a good thing. Miss you my brother. Love always – Bro.C.

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  41. Max was a wonderful person my husband worked with him at International Lighting years ago. We used to love going to watch him play music. When on stage he was in his element and one with the music, and the way he played guitar was unlike any I have ever heard. You will always be remembered especially when there is a”Blue Mist” in the air.

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  42. Max was a wonderful person my husband worked with him at International Lighting years ago. We used to love going to watch him play music. When on stage he was in his element and one with the music, and the way he played guitar was unlike any I have ever heard. You will always be remembered especially when there is a”Blue Mist” in the air.

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  43. My fellow outlaw-inlaw. Your legacy will live on with your beautiful family, friends and your music. Rest in Paradise Max.

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  44. My fellow outlaw-inlaw. Your legacy will live on with your beautiful family, friends and your music. Rest in Paradise Max.

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  45. Rest In Peace Max.
    Prayers to your family and friends. You will be missed, but you will live on in your music and the great memories you have left with us.

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  46. Rest In Peace Max.
    Prayers to your family and friends. You will be missed, but you will live on in your music and the great memories you have left with us.

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  47. My very deepest sympathy to all who knew and loved you, and to all who called you “family”. An enormous void for so many.
    My you find eternal peace and love in this next journey. And the winds gently in your sails.

    R.I.P Max.

    Jill Johans Baer

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  48. My very deepest sympathy to all who knew and loved you, and to all who called you “family”. An enormous void for so many.
    My you find eternal peace and love in this next journey. And the winds gently in your sails.

    R.I.P Max.

    Jill Johans Baer

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  49. You will be remembered for the wonderful times and entertainment that all had shared with you.
    Now take the higher stage of Heavens new upcoming events!
    ROCK ON!

    Loren & Lisa Reichmann

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  50. You will be remembered for the wonderful times and entertainment that all had shared with you.
    Now take the higher stage of Heavens new upcoming events!
    ROCK ON!

    Loren & Lisa Reichmann

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  51. You can rest in Peace now brother, you have paid your final dues. Thank you for being part of the great memories and moments we shared with our brothers on the road, and through the years. I pray your family is comforted by the kind words and comments made here by the people whose lives you impacted.
    Goodbyes are not the end, they simply mean, until we meet again.

    Reply
  52. You can rest in Peace now brother, you have paid your final dues. Thank you for being part of the great memories and moments we shared with our brothers on the road, and through the years. I pray your family is comforted by the kind words and comments made here by the people whose lives you impacted.
    Goodbyes are not the end, they simply mean, until we meet again.

    Reply
  53. I first met max when I was home on leave
    From military. I was walking by Mason school, there were two guys playing guitar

    It was Rusty Harder and max playing his new Les Paul. I knew rusty and he introduced me to max. Max was 14 or 15
    At the time. Max was such a likeable person. He gave me my first guitar pick…
    I still have it. Will miss you my brother
    We will meet again I am sure.
    Rest in peace.

    Your buddy Jim Bieler

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  54. I first met max when I was home on leave
    From military. I was walking by Mason school, there were two guys playing guitar

    It was Rusty Harder and max playing his new Les Paul. I knew rusty and he introduced me to max. Max was 14 or 15
    At the time. Max was such a likeable person. He gave me my first guitar pick…
    I still have it. Will miss you my brother
    We will meet again I am sure.
    Rest in peace.

    Your buddy Jim Bieler

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  55. Dear Max we sure enjoyed your company at my birthday party. We will miss you but will always remember the great music you played and the great times we had over the years. Love you and will always remember you. See you on the other side, brother.

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  56. Dear Max we sure enjoyed your company at my birthday party. We will miss you but will always remember the great music you played and the great times we had over the years. Love you and will always remember you. See you on the other side, brother.

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  57. With great sorry i am sadden to hear about max passing, May the peace of god be with you and your family at this terrible time.

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  58. With great sorry i am sadden to hear about max passing, May the peace of god be with you and your family at this terrible time.

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  59. Yes he was a great talent but that isn’t why he was a great guy. I loved talking to him about anything and everything. He was a kind soul with a big heart. He will be missed. My condolences to his family.
    RIP Max

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  60. Yes he was a great talent but that isn’t why he was a great guy. I loved talking to him about anything and everything. He was a kind soul with a big heart. He will be missed. My condolences to his family.
    RIP Max

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  61. One of the coolest guitarist I have ever known! May you rest in His peace! Everyone will miss you dearly! My deepest sympathies to family!

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  62. One of the coolest guitarist I have ever known! May you rest in His peace! Everyone will miss you dearly! My deepest sympathies to family!

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  63. R.I.P. Max. Really enjoyed our time playing music together down at Marcell’s place. Prayers for all your family – today, tomorrow and forever.

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  64. R.I.P. Max. Really enjoyed our time playing music together down at Marcell’s place. Prayers for all your family – today, tomorrow and forever.

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  65. I first saw Max when my friends and I watched him and Danny playing in Doc Savage in early 70s. Amazing guitar player he will definitely be missed.

    R.I.P. Max

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  66. I first saw Max when my friends and I watched him and Danny playing in Doc Savage in early 70s. Amazing guitar player he will definitely be missed.

    R.I.P. Max

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  67. We are heartbroken you could have lived a 100 years and it still wouldn’t have been long enough thank you for all of the memories at the gigs & that skit you did walking with your butt cheeks squeezed together & all the other hilarious things you said and did we love you so much rest high on that mountain sweet man

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  68. We are heartbroken you could have lived a 100 years and it still wouldn’t have been long enough thank you for all of the memories at the gigs & that skit you did walking with your butt cheeks squeezed together & all the other hilarious things you said and did we love you so much rest high on that mountain sweet man

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  69. You were part of the rich fabric of my life. Your music touched my soul and you made me laugh. Heartfelt condolences to all of your family and band mates.

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  70. You were part of the rich fabric of my life. Your music touched my soul and you made me laugh. Heartfelt condolences to all of your family and band mates.

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  71. From our families to yours , Max, our sympathies, our thoughts and prayers. We loved you from afar and ALWAYS WILL. Fly high on Angels wings

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  72. From our families to yours , Max, our sympathies, our thoughts and prayers. We loved you from afar and ALWAYS WILL. Fly high on Angels wings

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  73. Sincere condolences to family and friends. May God Bless .
    Max had my highest respect for not only as a musician but as a person.
    A good and honorable man.
    Rest In Peace

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  74. Sincere condolences to family and friends. May God Bless .
    Max had my highest respect for not only as a musician but as a person.
    A good and honorable man.
    Rest In Peace

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  75. I’ll always remember your smile and sense of humor Your talent was a gift that you shared with everyone who was lucky to have known or seen you perform Fly high my friend and let us know how the music is there Save me a ticket please ❤️

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  76. I’ll always remember your smile and sense of humor Your talent was a gift that you shared with everyone who was lucky to have known or seen you perform Fly high my friend and let us know how the music is there Save me a ticket please ❤️

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  77. Take care Max. Listen to you guys play many many times everywhere. You did a lot of time. Your family has my condolences. Wayne traube

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  78. Take care Max. Listen to you guys play many many times everywhere. You did a lot of time. Your family has my condolences. Wayne traube

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  79. Max was the kind of person you don’t forget. I don’t know who made me laugh more him or Kevin sanders. Probably max. But it’s close! We had some good times. I’ll never forget you. See you on the other side Brother.

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  80. Max was the kind of person you don’t forget. I don’t know who made me laugh more him or Kevin sanders. Probably max. But it’s close! We had some good times. I’ll never forget you. See you on the other side Brother.

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  81. John Rachel Cody Jana and Mama’s Pride plus all the musicians Max played with my deepest sympathy. I haven’t seen you Max since Wendy’s passing but you are always in my heart. I will always cherish the times at Jackson’s the backstage after Ron’s passing. Max was a gentle soul so funny always made me laugh. Max earned my nickname Cat in the Hat something we joked about on the Sunday night jam while in deep discussion. Sail on my friend I know you are jamming in Heaven till we meet again…

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  82. John Rachel Cody Jana and Mama’s Pride plus all the musicians Max played with my deepest sympathy. I haven’t seen you Max since Wendy’s passing but you are always in my heart. I will always cherish the times at Jackson’s the backstage after Ron’s passing. Max was a gentle soul so funny always made me laugh. Max earned my nickname Cat in the Hat something we joked about on the Sunday night jam while in deep discussion. Sail on my friend I know you are jamming in Heaven till we meet again…

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  83. There’s definitely a “Blue Mist in the Air” over Ole St. Lou ~ But, Max’s smile is showing through! God be with our dear friend and watch over him for all his loving family! Thank you for all the great memories, we will miss You so!

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  84. There’s definitely a “Blue Mist in the Air” over Ole St. Lou ~ But, Max’s smile is showing through! God be with our dear friend and watch over him for all his loving family! Thank you for all the great memories, we will miss You so!

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  85. Thanks Max for all the Sundays nights at Maggies with the Rhythm Rockers.
    R I P. Max till we see each other again

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  86. Thanks Max for all the Sundays nights at Maggies with the Rhythm Rockers.
    R I P. Max till we see each other again

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  87. Hello. I worked with Max at International Lighting. My deepest condolences to Family and Friends.
    Had many happy hrs where we would end up watching max play around town. Max let me do an interview and record him playing for video project.
    Sail on

    https://youtu.be/FMsrWrmgHE0

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  88. Hello. I worked with Max at International Lighting. My deepest condolences to Family and Friends.
    Had many happy hrs where we would end up watching max play around town. Max let me do an interview and record him playing for video project.
    Sail on

    https://youtu.be/FMsrWrmgHE0

    Reply
  89. Rachel, Cody and family – I am so sorry for your loss. I know you miss him terribly and the days and years ahead will be so hard. My prayers are with all of you and I know you will carry his spirit with you.

    Fly high Max, it was an honor to know you.

    You will be missed

    Rosie & Richard

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  90. Rachel, Cody and family – I am so sorry for your loss. I know you miss him terribly and the days and years ahead will be so hard. My prayers are with all of you and I know you will carry his spirit with you.

    Fly high Max, it was an honor to know you.

    You will be missed

    Rosie & Richard

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  91. Thank you Max for your friendship and your inspiration. You and your music made a big difference to the many people you touched. My condolences to family and friends. May you rest in peace.

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  92. Thank you Max for your friendship and your inspiration. You and your music made a big difference to the many people you touched. My condolences to family and friends. May you rest in peace.

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  93. Prayers to all your family and friends. Such a great loss. One of the best musicians known. Best of times with Mama’s Pride, Roland’s Band and The Baker McLaren Band. Your spirit and music will live on. Rest in Peace until we all meet again in Heaven. God Bless

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  94. Prayers to all your family and friends. Such a great loss. One of the best musicians known. Best of times with Mama’s Pride, Roland’s Band and The Baker McLaren Band. Your spirit and music will live on. Rest in Peace until we all meet again in Heaven. God Bless

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  95. I was heartbroken to hear of the passing of Max Baker. I am praying for your family and friends. Mamas Pride’s music was the sound track of my life here in St. Louis. I was fortunate enough to see them at least a dozen times and they were my teen age daughters first concert at the Pageant. He was always so gracious to fans and talked to us after the show, to answer questions, tell funny stories and sign what ever we put in front of him. The St. Louis music scene will never be the same. He was one of the great guitar players of our time. What a tremendous loss. What a blessing to have these memories preserved and be able to put on my records and hear Mamas Pride and appreciate the gift God gave us. I know he is with the Lord. We will see him again and he will have that smile on his face.
    Sail on to the Mighty One…

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  96. I was heartbroken to hear of the passing of Max Baker. I am praying for your family and friends. Mamas Pride’s music was the sound track of my life here in St. Louis. I was fortunate enough to see them at least a dozen times and they were my teen age daughters first concert at the Pageant. He was always so gracious to fans and talked to us after the show, to answer questions, tell funny stories and sign what ever we put in front of him. The St. Louis music scene will never be the same. He was one of the great guitar players of our time. What a tremendous loss. What a blessing to have these memories preserved and be able to put on my records and hear Mamas Pride and appreciate the gift God gave us. I know he is with the Lord. We will see him again and he will have that smile on his face.
    Sail on to the Mighty One…

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  97. …”I know I’ll never lose affection for people and friends that came before, I know I’ll often stop and think about them…” You always had a smile, a laugh and time to spend with others. Thank You, Max. Until we meet again.

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  98. …”I know I’ll never lose affection for people and friends that came before, I know I’ll often stop and think about them…” You always had a smile, a laugh and time to spend with others. Thank You, Max. Until we meet again.

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  99. My precious Max,
    You are firmly woven into the tapestry of my life. You will never be forgotten. You will always be in the sunshine and rain of many a heart who you have left behind. The fortunate people who have known you over the years will smile when we share stories of your escapades and triumphs.
    Go shouting into Heaven, find those who had gone before you and we will join you one day for a big reunion concert.
    In Jesus name I ask that He bless you and keep you. Amen

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  100. My precious Max,
    You are firmly woven into the tapestry of my life. You will never be forgotten. You will always be in the sunshine and rain of many a heart who you have left behind. The fortunate people who have known you over the years will smile when we share stories of your escapades and triumphs.
    Go shouting into Heaven, find those who had gone before you and we will join you one day for a big reunion concert.
    In Jesus name I ask that He bless you and keep you. Amen

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  101. Max my dear friend I am so sorry I had no idea .I live out of state now and I just heard an announcement about Mama’s Pride playing at The Pageant with a tribute to you and it struck me why would they be paying a tribute and then I Googled and I see that you are no longer with us. Max I loved you like a brother we had such great times together , you coming into play and me behind the bar and we would talk and laugh until it was time for you to go on stage you’re always such a big part of my life from the days when I met you in a little bitty bar and Dogtown to all the places that I tended bar and you played. You were always a comfort to me I love you my buddy I’m glad that you’re resting in peace but we’ll miss you forever. Condolences to all your family and many many friends and fans .

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  102. Max my dear friend I am so sorry I had no idea .I live out of state now and I just heard an announcement about Mama’s Pride playing at The Pageant with a tribute to you and it struck me why would they be paying a tribute and then I Googled and I see that you are no longer with us. Max I loved you like a brother we had such great times together , you coming into play and me behind the bar and we would talk and laugh until it was time for you to go on stage you’re always such a big part of my life from the days when I met you in a little bitty bar and Dogtown to all the places that I tended bar and you played. You were always a comfort to me I love you my buddy I’m glad that you’re resting in peace but we’ll miss you forever. Condolences to all your family and many many friends and fans .

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  103. “Earth crystal, Heaven smiles.” I’m only now hearing of this loss. In a world of many, Max was a giant. A true scoundrel and perfect gentleman. You will be in my heart LONG after FOREVER IS A MEMORY! Suzy

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  104. “Earth crystal, Heaven smiles.” I’m only now hearing of this loss. In a world of many, Max was a giant. A true scoundrel and perfect gentleman. You will be in my heart LONG after FOREVER IS A MEMORY! Suzy

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  105. I knew Max many years ago I’m very sad to find that he has passed .Very sorry for his family and friends He was very talented and very kind Good Person.He will be missed by many.

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