Wilbur Baird

Wilbur L. Baird died August ,7 2023. He was born in Wichita, and was grateful to live his entire life in his hometown. Wilbur began working when he was 14 at Jett and Wood Grocery Supply. He loaded Model A trucks with bags of flour, and filled burlap bags with coffee beans, stitching them closed with twine. His favorite task was filling 25 pound tins with fresh peanut butter as it flowed from the grinder. Every time he smelled roasting peanuts, he reminisced about those days. Even at an early age, Wilbur was thinking of ways to do any job faster or more efficiently. Wilbur began his career at the Post Office in 1949 at the age of 18. He started as a part-time carrier, served as Postmaster/SEC Manager for 16 years and retired in 1986. He treasured his 37 years with the Postal Service, leaving a lasting imprint on many. His like of palindromes is reflected in the zip code of the GMF 67276. He also enjoyed a second 25 year career as a manager at Postal Presort. Wilbur was a 50 year member of the Rotary Club, receiving the Dale Gordon award for his many hours of reading to children in public schools. Wilbur and wife Billie supported Music Theater and WSU basketball as season ticket holders for over 50 years.

Preceding Wilbur in death are wife of 69 years, Billie Irene, parents A. Paul and Eula Baird, brother and sister-in-law Marvin and Joy Baird. Surviving Wilbur are daughters Gayle (Mike) Pottorf, Gloria Baird, and cherished nieces and nephews. No service is planned at this time.