Lauren R. Baron

Lauren Ray Baron, age 59, peacefully went into the loving arms of his Savior, Jesus Christ, at Faith Hospice at Trillium Woods in Byron Center, MI on Monday, June 10, 2019 after a long, courageous battle with Multiple Myeloma cancer. He was born on December 2, 1959, in Platte, South Dakota to Harvey and Gertrude Baron. He and his family moved to Holland, MI when he was seven years old, attending Southside Christian School. Lauren was a 1978 graduate of Holland Christian High School and a lifelong member of 14th St. Christian Reformed Church. He received an Associate's Degree from Reformed Bible College in Grand Rapids, MI, and continued his education at Hope College to earn his Bachelor of Arts Degree in social work. He worked for many years in that field, serving in numerous roles with various social service organizations in West Michigan. Lauren has always had a servant's heart which was demonstrated through his career, commitment to volunteering, and giving back to the community. Close to his heart were the ministries of Benjamin's Hope, Kid's Hope, Christ Memorial Church's After School Program, and Evergreen Commons Day Center, among others. Additionally, Lauren was an active participant in Gilda's Club, a Multiple Myeloma support group, where he was known as a prayer warrior for so many individuals affected by the very disease that he battled himself. Lauren was an avid sports fan, specifically the Detroit Tigers, Lions, and the University of Michigan. He could be found at nearly every Hope College basketball game, cheering on his favorite team with the help of dear friends. He loved being near Lake Michigan, fishing, walking, golfing, and playing tennis, always up for an adventure. Music was a significant part of his life, expressed through supporting his children in their musical activities, singing loudly to his dearest hymns, and attending favorite concerts throughout his life. He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Michele, and his two beloved children, Kristin and Mitchell. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Gertrude Baron, his parents-in-law, Corneal (Izzy) and Leah Israels, and a brother-in-law, Gary Israels. He is also survived by his two sisters, Elaine Dupuy and Gloria (Dale) Rouwhorst, brother-in-law Kelly Israels, sister-in-law Deb (Rick) Prince, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, June 15, 2019 at Fourteenth Street Christian Reformed Church, 14 W. 14th St. Holland. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visitation will be 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Friday, June 14, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St. Holland. Memorial contributions can be made in Lauren's honor to Faith Hospice at Trillium Woods (Byron Center, MI) and Benjamin's Hope (Holland, MI). To leave a condolence and for more information please visit www.langelandsterenberg.com.

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Lauren R. Baron

December 2, 1959 - June 10, 2019