Joseph P. Baird, 70, of Belvidere passed away at his home on May 1, 2021 with his beloved family nearby. He was born May 29, 1950 in Belvidere, Illinois. Joe graduated from Belvidere High School, class of 1968. He married his best friend and love of his life, Diane Blake, on October 3, 1970 at First Presbyterian Church in Belvidere. They built a beautiful life together throughout these past 50 years. Joe worked for Ingersoll Milling Machine Company for several years and then went on to spend 32 years at Liebovich Bros Inc., retiring in 2015. He was also a player agent for Belvidere Youth Baseball, or BYB, for many years, handling everything from the coaches to complaints. Joe absolutely loved sports- from the Belvidere Bucs to Chicago Bears. He liked to know what was happening in and around the community. He was a great problem solver and he never forgot a thing. Joe was thoughtful and considerate of others, never wanting to be the center of attention. He was well-liked and appreciated those close to him. Joe's wonderful traits have been passed down to his two sons who will continue to honor his legacy. His loving and caring qualities have also been passed on to his cherished granddaughter, Regan.

Joe is missed and will be lovingly remembered by his wife Diane; their sons Andy and Adam (Andrea); granddaughter Regan; sister-in-law Claudia Shamet; niece and nephew, Kim and Chris; precious puggle Rocky; and grand-furbaby Buddy, Rocky's second best pal. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law John Shamet. Cremation rites have been accorded and events to honor Joe's memory will be held in the future. Memorial contributions in his honor can be given in care of the family to establish a memorial at a later date. Anderson Funeral & Cremation Services has been assisting the family. To leave a condolence or share a memory, please visit www.AndersonFCS.com.