Brian S. Baake

Brian Baake
September 26, 1967 – April 18, 2025

Brian S. Baake of Waukesha, WI, aged 57, passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, with his devoted wife Manivanh (Mani) by his side. Brian bravely faced a brief battle with cancer, showing remarkable strength and resilience throughout.

Born on September 26, 1967, in Milwaukee, Brian was the eldest son of the late Arthur and Judith (Burkwald) Baake. He grew up in Saukville, where he formed lifelong friendships. These friends showed their unwavering support by visiting and calling during his illness. His longtime friend Shawn Harris traveled from Arizona to ensure he could spend time with Brian in his final days.

Brian was a graduate of Port Washington High School, class of 1986. He earned a Master’s degree at MSOE. He worked as an electrical engineer at ITW for 31 years, where he met and fell in love with Manivanh, his soulmate. His dedication to his profession and colleagues was evident throughout his career.

Brian’s life was filled with love and laughter. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and a treasured friend. His infectious laugh, deep love for his family, and passion for car shows—his favorite being Automotion in Wisconsin Dells—family picnics at Mauthe Lake, days at Road America race track, camping with family, air shows, dressing up with the kids for trick-or-treat, backyard cookouts, and a good Wisconsin Fish Fry will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his cherished children: son Taylor and his wife Grace Baake, and daughter Marielle Baake. He found immense joy in being a grandfather to Kamryn and Nolan Baake.

Brian is survived by his wife Manivanh, who was his steadfast companion and source of comfort throughout his illness, never leaving his side. Manivanh will love and cherish Brian forever and miss him immensely. His memory will be forever cherished by all who knew and loved him.

Brian is also survived by his brothers Christian (Carrie), Mark (Robin), and Richard (Anne Will) Baake; his mother-in-law Deang Prasongsee, affectionately known as Mama, who loved Brian like a son and watched over him in his final days; sister-in-law Chanthala Prasongsee; and Yui & Lay Srisuk. Cousins Darlene Maternowski. Brian shared a special bond with his Uncle Ricky, Aunt Marlene, cousin Dale, and his wife Kayla Burkwald. He often shared fond memories of his time spent at his late Grandma and Grandpa Burkwald’s, especially the Sundays spent at church followed by visits to their house. The rambunctious trouble he and his brothers would get into, the stories will live on.

He was a beloved uncle to Colin (Kelsey), Cory, Cole (Maura), Samantha (Brooks), and Eric Baake; a great uncle to Waylon, Arthur, and Violet Baake.

Brian loved spending time with his family and friends, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

A private family viewing will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025. A celebration of life is being planned for later this summer, as it was Brian’s wish to create happy memories and for no one to be sad.