John Walter Baird

John Walter Baird passed away on February 20, 2026, in Anaconda, Montana, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

John was born in Butte, Montana, on June 27, 1946, the third child and only son of Walter and Irene Baird. With his parents and sisters Beverly ("Sweet") and Sue, he grew up in Centerville and graduated from Butte High School. In 1964, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam War on the USS Davidson. After being stationed in several ports, he was honorably discharged in 1970.

While residing in Butte, John met and married his perfect counterpart, Cheryl. They were married in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on May 24, 1976, and would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in just three months.

John owned JB Furnace Service after retiring from Montana Power as a gas serviceman for Anaconda and the surrounding area. Prior to his transfer to Anaconda in 1989, he was the West Line Welder while residing in Absarokee and then Bridger, Montana. In 1998, Montana Power recognized John for achieving 20 years without a lost time accident. In every job or endeavor, John was well respected for his work ethic and skill. His special combination of honesty and wit earned him friends everywhere he went. Even though there are too many close friends to name, they're unlikely to ever forget all their good times with John.

Over the years, John's passion for the outdoors led him to pursue many activities, and he excelled at skiing, hiking, bicycling, and fly fishing. In years past, he enjoyed fishing Montana’s rivers on his raft. He inspired his friends and family to become more active. In later years, John took up woodworking and was extremely particular in the unique items he created. Being an avid reader gave John a depth of subjects to discuss – name nearly any subject, and John had probably become a semi-expert of his own accord, though he was always humble in his knowledge.

John is survived by his wife, Cheryl, who became his “angel” throughout his medical battles. He will also be dearly missed by his sister Sue (Mel) Gardner, sister-in-law Carol (Kevin) Reed, brother-in-law Steve (Tammy) Wham, nephews Ron (Tammi) Gardner, John (Lydia) Gardner, Joe (Laurie) Schwartzenberger, Daniel Kindred, Derek Wham, and Dustin Wham. Nieces include Beth (Jerry) Sullivan, Julie (Ted) Connors, Krystal Kindred, and Jenna (Sam) Dennis, as well as several great-nephews and great-nieces. “Uncle John” was a common phrase heard in his family. John was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Lyle and Irene Lasky Baird and his sister Beverly “Sweet” Schwartzenberger.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

John's family will receive friends from 3-5pm on Friday, March 6, 2026, in the reception hall of Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home, 107 Oak St., in Anaconda. All of John's friends are invited to gather in remembrance of him.

May “Whistlin’ John” rest in peace. We are certain he is now carrying a happy tune somewhere in Heaven with his buddy Benny Corrigan.

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