Kevin Rugene Baird

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Kevin R. Baird, of Lakewood, Colorado, on June 3, 2025, at the age of 70.

Kevin was born in Burlington, Iowa, on February 9, 1955, the son of Malcolm and Verna Baird. He attended Burlington Community High School, graduating in 1973. He then attended the University of Iowa, graduating in 1977 with a degree in Music.

Kevin had a lifelong love of music. He performed with Opera Colorado for 31 years in operas such as Gianni Schicci, Tosca and La traviata. He sang bass, including some solos, in languages such as Italian, French, German and Russian. He also enjoyed performing with the Opera Colorado Madrigal Singers over many holiday seasons along with several other community choruses and ensembles. He also worked for RTD-Denver for nearly 2 decades. 

Kevin loved hiking and camping in the mountains of Colorado, he had a tremendous fondness for animals, and spending time with friends and family was always a treasured activity. 

Kevin will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew and loved him. We’ll never forget his amazing low voice, his incredible sense of humor and his kindness.

Kevin is survived by his four sisters: Candy Stineman of Winfield, Iowa; Phyllis Baird of Denver, Colorado; Becky (Dale) Wear of Polk City, Florida; and Jennifer (Brian) Reynolds of Davenport, Iowa; plus 3 nieces and 5 nephews and many great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law, Jake Stineman.

Per Kevin’s wishes, his remains will be cremated and no funeral service will be held. The immediate family will gather in Iowa to celebrate Kevin’s life privately at a later date. Additionally, a Celebration of Life will be held in Denver with date TBD.

In lieu of gifts and flowers, Kevin’s family requests that donations be made to organizations he valued. 

Humane Colorado at: humanecolorado.org/donation-center

Opera Colorado at: my.operacolorado.org/donate