Cherish Passeno and Marc Baker's story is one of connection, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the vibrant community they call home. Together for nearly a decade, Cherish and Marc have built a life rooted in shared passions, family, and a love for the outdoors. Their journey began on March 14, 2015, a date that holds a special place in their hearts. Introduced through mutual friends, they met at a comedy show in Royal Oak on Pi Day. It was an evening of laughter and sparks that led to an instant connection, and they’ve been inseparable ever since.
Marc and Cherish share a bond that thrives on creating memories together. Among their favorites is their first trip to Boyne Mountain, a tradition that has become an annual highlight. It was Marc who introduced Cherish and her son Thomas to skiing, a pastime that has since become a cherished family activity. Winters now see the entire family hitting the slopes, forging bonds through shared laughter and the thrill of carving through fresh powder.
Family plays a central role in Cherish and Marc’s lives. Cherish’s son Thomas, 18, graduated from Lapeer High School this past June and has embarked on an exciting career in robotics. Marc’s three children—Jacob and Jarod, both Lapeer High School alumni, and Kylie, currently a senior poised to graduate this year—round out their blended family. Their shared love for skiing has become a unifying thread, with everyone looking forward to winter getaways at Boyne Mountain and Caberfae. Summers, on the other hand, are often spent at Marc’s family’s beach house on Lake Michigan, soaking up the sun and making the most of Michigan’s natural beauty.
The couple’s love for the outdoors extends beyond skiing. Cherish is an avid beekeeper, while both she and Marc are enthusiastic hikers, paddleboarders, and mountain bikers. The Oakdale Trails in Lapeer and the Hogback trails in Elba are particular favorites, offering year-round opportunities for exploration and fitness. This year, they’ve set their sights on contributing to the maintenance and improvement of these trails, reflecting their commitment to giving back to the community they adore.
Cherish’s roots in Lapeer run deep. Having grown up in the area and attended local schools, she moved away for much of her adult life before returning four years ago to raise her son in the community that shaped her. Marc, originally from the west side of the state, has called Lapeer home since 1996. Their decision to settle in the area together felt like a natural one, given Cherish’s ties and Marc’s established connection through his children. They now reside on a modest piece of land near the Reservoir in Columbiaville, a location they chose for its tranquility and proximity to nature. Evenings often find them gathered around a bonfire, marveling at the starlit sky away from city lights.
Their home is a lively one, filled with the warmth of family and the companionship of their pets. Felix, their dog, originally Cherish and Thomas's, has formed a particularly strong bond with Marc, earning the title of “bestest buddy.” The household also includes three cats—Rocky and Sunny, who joined from Marc’s side, and a stray Cherish and Marc took in after moving to their current home. Adding to the mix are their chickens, ensuring there’s never a dull moment on their little patch of countryside.
Professionally, Cherish and Marc bring a wealth of experience to their respective fields. Cherish, a real estate agent for the past decade, works under Max Broock Realtors, a part of Michigan’s largest brokerage. To better serve her clients she has taken additional specialized courses and
earned designations specializing in working with Sellers, Buyers, Seniors, pricing strategies,
and marketing. Marc, holding an associate degree from Mott Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University, complements her dedication to hard work and community involvement. Their shared belief in education and career excellence is mirrored in their children’s pursuits and achievements.
Beyond their professional lives, Marc and Cherish are deeply engaged in their community. They’ve participated in the annual Santa Ride to support the Holiday Depot of Lapeer County, an event they now consider a yearly family tradition. Cherish’s involvement with the Lapeer County Social club has been another meaningful outlet, providing opportunities to connect with other women and support local businesses. Her role as one of the sponsors and event organizers reflects her passion for fostering relationships and celebrating the vibrancy of the Lapeer area.
When it comes to fun and friendly competition, Marc takes pride in his title as the reigning chili cook-off champion, an honor he plans to defend this year in the annual event at the neighbor's house. It’s just one example of how the couple embraces the camaraderie and spirit of their neighborhood.
Their family’s motto, inspired by the legendary Warren Miller, is a testament to their adventurous spirit: “If you don’t do it this year, you’ll be one year older when you do.” It’s a guiding principle that underscores their approach to life, encouraging them to seize opportunities and make the most of every moment. Whether they’re carving down a snowy slope, volunteering in the community, or simply enjoying an evening under the stars, Marc and Cherish embody the essence of living fully and authentically.
As they look to the future, Marc and Cherish remain deeply grateful for the sense of belonging they’ve found in Lapeer. Their message to neighbors and advertisers alike reflects their appreciation for the small-town charm and community spirit that make their life here so fulfilling. In their own words, “We’re thankful for the connections and stories that make Lapeer Living more than just a magazine—it’s a celebration of the people, businesses, and places that make our community unique. I am so happy and grateful that I can contribute to this wonderful publication that is offered for free to many households in the area. Lapeer Living highlights different things within, and about our community, some of the local families, and some of the local businesses that many people wouldn’t even know exist. I feel like not only is it interesting, but it also fosters a sense of pride and belonging to and in our community."
Photography by Todoroff Media