Baxter Michael Green, son of Ian Green and Chris Mikesell-Green (Karl), passed away Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at the age of eight.

Baxter was born May 29, 2014- and his mama has long claimed because of his picturesque birth, this is the best day of her life.  He was blessed during his life to be surrounded by the love of three brothers, Dawson James, Thaddeus William, and Courtlin Charles.  Not all boys are given the gift of built in playmates and the Green boys have had many adventures. Infectious laughter, monstrous forts, wild nights of wrestling, fierce sporting competitions, rambling bike rides, tickle fights, epic battles- Nerf to Skipbo to Fortnite, and lots of sweet snuggling filled the Green house all of Baxter's years.

From his arrival, Baxter was showered with devotion from Farm Grandpa Deryl Rush, Grandma Judy Dieker, and Great Grandpa Chuck Chipman.  And while we on earth grieve, surely Farm Grandma Patty (Williams) Rush greeted him with open arms in heaven.  Aunt Lisa Wiebe, Unky Paul Wiebe, and Uncle Noal Green brought giggles and encouraged mischief.  Baxter spent joyful hours playing with cousins Kate, Luke, Owen, and Emma.  Countless other friends and family delighted Baxter with their kindness and he was so glad to return the same.

Baxter had a great love for all animals on this earth, but was particularly fond of his gecko Glitch, the family pets Charley the dog and Bacon the bearded dragon.  He was the bravest of the Green boys when it came to anything creepy crawly- quick to pick up a worm, lizard, or frog. It surprised no one when he dressed as a zookeeper for Halloween one year.  Baxter loved dressing up in full costumes and having his face painted in various characters on any day, not just for Halloween.  When headed out for a family event, or just for school, Baxter's family called him a "sharp dressed man," as he was always looking for a stylish outfit and quick to ask mom about spikes for his hair.

Baxter could often be found at the table creating art projects and writing stories. From a very young age he delighted his brothers with stories of the turtles who lived under his bed and their many shenanigans.  Baxter loved school- perhaps mostly for the social opportunities, but he was a voracious reader who loved to share about the stories he read.   He was active in his home church, Trinity United Methodist, and especially loved participating in the Christmas pageant. He will long be remembered for his role as Einstein the wiseman. Baxter was a proud member of the Astros baseball team and a musical theatre student at the Salina Community Theatre.

Baxter was eager to experience life and was quick to sign up for diverse experiences- be they tap dancing or fishing. Fond family memories include vacationing. Baxter loved the ocean, the Rockettes, Lake of the Ozarks, SeaWorld, and Disneyland.  When remembering Baxter, people recall his raspy voice as he cracked a joke or excitedly offered a zany idea.  He loved to make people laugh, even at his own expense, and shared freely, whether it be snacks or some good natured advice.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Friday January 20, at Trinity United Methodist Church, Salina.  Memorial Services will be at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 21 at the church.  The family kindly requests no flowers and ask that memorials for Baxter be made to the Rolling Hills Zoo or Children's Mercy Hospital and may be left in care of Wilson Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 166, Minneapolis, KS 67467.