Michael E. Baum 1970-2026
HUBBARD — Michael Edward Baum, 55, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, at his home. His sudden passing has left his family and friends stunned, heartbroken and still trying to wrap their heads around how someone so full of life, sarcasm and opinions could be gone so quickly.
Born April 1, 1970, in Youngstown, Michael was the son of William Robert and Mary Theresa Lyden Baum.
He was a graduate of Brookfield High School and continued his education by earning several certifications, including the highly coveted Masonry Certificate (per TG, of course). He also shared that masonry knowledge by teaching classes periodically. First and foremost, though, he was an excellent and skilled machinist. A proud, hardworking man, Michael dedicated years of his career to Sharon Tube, where he built not only a career but also lifelong friendships, even getting the chance to work with his daughter for a period of time.
Michael had an uncanny ability to always find the positive in life. Bad day? He’d find something to laugh about. Tough situation? He’d shrug, crack a joke and somehow make it feel lighter. He firmly believed laughter fixed most problems — and honestly, he made a pretty strong case for it. Known for his wicked sense of humor, sharp wit and perfectly timed one-liners, Michael could turn a normal conversation into a comedy routine without even trying.
He was a true family man … but let’s clear something up right now: Everyone knew where they stood, and at the very top of that list was his beloved cat, Krinkle. He loved his children fiercely, his family deeply and his friends wholeheartedly.
Smart, humble, endlessly caring and the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back and never mention it again, Michael left a lasting impression everywhere he went. He lifted people up, saw the good in them and had a way of making you feel like things were going to be OK — even when they clearly weren’t.
A sportsman at heart, Michael enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors, and took great pride in his carefully maintained collection of “toys.” He could fix about anything and preferred taking the scenic route (even when his passengers strongly disagreed). He was a regular at the VFW Club, Moose Lodge, Greek Coffee House and Croatian Club — places where good stories, strong opinions and plenty of laughter were always guaranteed.
Michael leaves behind his children, Shayla Baum (fiance Tyler Schurko) and Shawn Baum; his sisters, Cathy Baum and Charity (Tommy) Ginnis; his nephew, George Ginnis; his niece, Mary Ginnis; and his favorite feline companion, Krinkle.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Billy Baum.
Friends and family will be received 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers.
Visit www.beckerobits.com to send the family condolences and share your memories (clean ones only — because Michael definitely had plenty of the other kind).
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