Francis A. “Big Al” Baird, 64, of Springfield passed away Tuesday, February 26, 2008 in his residence.

He was born in Springfield, Ohio on January 23, 1944, the son of Francis W. and Ethel. (White) Baird. Al was preceded in death by his parents.

He spent six years in the Air National Guard. Al was a member of the Carpenters Union. He spent his whole life in construction starting in commercial trade, working for Fry, Inc., Sutherly & Brell Construction as a superintendent and project manager. Some of the projects he was proudest of was the Wittenberg Field House, Tubman Towers, and several high schools, including Northwestern, Xenia, and Piqua. The last 15 years of his career, in the family company “Baird Builders” building a veterinary clinic, several oil exchanges, and Glidden paints before going into residential. At this time “Big Al” and son Gary, built several florida rooms, remolded churches, and homes. Upon his retirement in 2000, he enjoyed spending time in his workshop and helping his son in law process deer during the winter.

Big Al's greatest pleasure came from seeing the accomplishments his children and their spouses have achieved. His grandchildren were the light of his life and he loved them very much. Al was the glue that held the family together and we will miss him terribly.

Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Carol Jean (Donohoe) Baird, whom he married November 17, 1962; son Gary A. & Cheryl Baird; daughter Sheila J. & Joe Dunn; sister Lois A. & Charles Fremder, Jr.; six grandchildren; his pets Pepper and Snoop; several nieces and nephews.

Services will be Friday at 3:00 PM in the Richards, Raff & Dunbar Memorial Home with Pastor Dennis Moritz officiating. A gathering of friends and family will be two hours prior to services. Entombment will follow in Rose Hill Burial Park.

Memorial contributions are requested to Community Mercy Hospice or the Animal Welfare League. The Baird family would like to thank Hospice and nurses Tammy Clark and Sue Lycans for their wonderful care and support.