Renate Baird

With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Renate Baird, age 77, who peacefully left us on January 13, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her cherished loved ones. Renate was born on November 12, 1947, in Ravensburg, Germany, to her devoted parents, Walter and Mia Tuck. Amid the turmoil of post-war Europe, the Tuck family courageously fled their homeland, first seeking refuge in British Columbia, Canada, before eventually settling in the United States and becoming proud U.S. citizens. The Tuck family established their home in East Los Angeles, where Renate attended grade school. Later, they relocated to Simi Valley to be closer to her father's work, where she continued her education, attending middle school and high school. It was in Simi Valley that Renate met the love of her life, O.D. Baird, at the tender age of 16. Following a brief courtship, they married in 1964. After a few years of travel, Renate and O.D., along with her parents, made their forever home on the outskirts of Visalia, California. In a gesture of love and commitment, O.D. surprised Renate with the idyllic country property where they would spend over 50 joyful years together. It was here they raised their three children: Curtis, David, and Amanda ("Mandy"). Renate and O.D. built a life rooted in hard work and family values. Together, they owned and operated Watkins Pumping & Mr. Rooter Plumbing on their property for over 40 years before retiring. Renate had a passion for painting in her earlier years and delighted in meeting new people, always forming meaningful connections wherever she went. Her quick wit, direct honesty, and unyielding tenacity were hallmarks of her personality-traits that, while not universally adored, defined her indomitable spirit. With her striking blue eyes and proud German heritage, Renate never shied away from being herself. Though tough, she loved with an intensity and sincerity that left no doubt in the hearts of her family and friends. Her greatest joy was her family. She cherished every moment spent with her beloved husband, children, grandchildren, and dogs, creating lasting memories that she held close to her heart. Among her favorite recollections were the times her sons participated in rodeo events while Mandy rode her bike nearby. Renate was preceded in death by her husband, O.D. Baird, and her parents, Walter and Mia Tuck. She is survived by her children, Curtis Baird of Visalia, David (Gail) Baird of Tulare, and Amanda ("Mandy") (Jim) Baird of Visalia; her grandchildren, Lindsey (Brandon) Tran of Cambridge, MA, Dalton Baird of Eagle River, Alaska, and Tyler and Kaitlynn Crain of Visalia, CA; and her sister, Peggy Estes of Visalia, CA. A Celebration of Life will be held on the family property on Thursday, January 23, 2025 from 2-5pm, located at 36755 Road 124, Visalia, CA 93291 The family extends heartfelt thanks to those who have supported them during this time. Memorial tributes and condolences may be shared online at www.salseranddillard.com

Renate Baird

November 12, 1947 - January 13, 2025