John "Mike" Baldwin

John Michael “Mike” Baldwin, age 64, of Winona, and formerly of Joplin, MO, passed away on Friday, April 27, 2018, at St. Anne Extended Healthcare.

He was born on June 16, 1953, in Joplin, to George Frank Baldwin and Maxine Eleanor Mittag Baldwin.  He married Linda Westfall, and they later divorced.

Following high school, Mike attended Missouri State Southern and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education.  He recently graduated from the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, MN, where he received Masters Degrees in Divinity and Theology.

He was employed as a driver for DHL in Joplin for many years.  After relocating to Winona in 2013, Mike enjoyed working for Brach’s Candy Company and at the Dollar Tree.

Mike was a talented bass guitarist who loved to reminisce about playing in the bands “Pieces” and “Smith Brothers.”  Mike’s greatest passion in life was his love of God, and teaching Bible studies.  He was an active member of his church in Joplin and of Wesley United Methodist Church in Winona, where he enjoyed playing bass guitar in the Praise Bands at both churches.  He will be remembered for his enjoyment of books, music, teaching, nature, and spending time with the people he loved.  He will be deeply missed by all those who knew him, especially his family, whom he loved very much.

Mike is lovingly survived by his children: Stevie (Dewayne) Faulkner of Texas; Kymbre (Brian) Haynes and Nathan Baldwin, both of Missouri; fiancée: Susan (Sandsness) Kirby, Winona; grandchildren: Emma Riley, Mikeal Haynes, and Harper Haynes; as well as other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Bill Baldwin.

A memorial service will be held at 2 PM on Tuesday, May 1, 2018, at Wesley United Methodist Church in Winona.  The Rev. Dr. Robert Hicks will officiate.  The family will greet relatives and friends at the church following the service.  A family graveside service and burial will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Winona.

Online condolences or memories may be left for Mike’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.