Southbridge: Mark A. Baron, 71, known as 'The Tire Guy' of North Woodstock Rd., passed away on March 29th in UMass Memorial Medical Center after a brief illness.

He leaves his beloved wife of over 41 years, Christine E. (Boutelle) Baron of Southbridge; his brother, Richard G. Baron and his wife Beth of Woodstock, CT; his mother in-law, Priscilla Boutelle of Southbridge; brother in-laws, Curtis Boutelle and his wife Sandra of Southbridge and Clyde Boutelle of Southbridge; sister in-laws, Catherine Rondeau of Southbridge and Cynthia Bernard and her husband David of Fort Worth, TX; nephew, Carlton Rondeau; nieces, Sarah Boutelle, Brieanna Baron-Legendre, Kaitlyn Baron, Cayla Garfield, Ashley Boutelle, and Samantha Luberto; Mark also leaves his cat, Toby, whom he loved so much and many great nieces and nephews.

Mark was born in Worcester, MA the son of Andrew J. and Laure E. (Bonnette) Baron.

At the age of 17, Mark started his business, Baron Tire, from his childhood home. His passion for tires led him to open two more tire shops which he owned for 22 years.

Mark met his wife, Christine, at the newspaper office in Southbridge and they married on November 19th, 1983. Together, they shared many wonderful years traveling and creating cherished memories.

Mark loved sports. He was a lifelong UConn fan and supported all Boston sports teams with much enthusiasm. His love for sports wasn't just watching games, he always made an effort to include his family, often starting the afternoon with a dinner at Eddy V's before heading to a game.

Mark will be remembered for his incredible work ethic, his generosity, and his love for a good donut. "Always remember, dessert before dinner!" He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

A funeral service for Mark will be held on Thursday, April 10th, at 11:00am in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge. Burial will follow in St. George Cemetery, Southbridge.  Calling hours in the funeral home will be held on Wednesday, April 9th, from 5:30 to 7:30pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Here Today Adopted Tomorrow,  180 Sturbridge Road, Brimfield MA 01010.

Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge is directing the arrangements.