William E. "Bill" Bauer, 91, passed away peacefully at home on October 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife of 71 years, Bonnie L Bauer, and his children.
Bill was born to the late Fred and La Pearl (Keller) Bauer in Monterey on October 15, 1932. He was one of 6 children. He graduated from Monterey High School in 1950. He later joined the Army and was a veteran serving during the Korean War, where he was a mechanic and cook. He often said he wiped out a whole battalion with his cooking.
On October 3, 1953, Bill married Bonnie L Wiler and they had 5 children together. He worked 2 jobs for many years. He worked at Bendix in South Bend for 33 years.Bill and Bonnie then purchased Bauer's Grocery Store in 1970 and ran that business until 2008 when they sold out. They were well-known in the community for their famous homemade ham salad. Bill also served several years as the Fire Chief of the Monterey Volunteer Fire Department.
Bill's favorite things to do in life were attending Notre Dame athletic games, watching IU basketball and attending the Indianapolis 500 starting back in 1952, for at least 60 years with his family. He was great at working on small engines and a good craftsman.
Bill is survived by his loving wife: Bonnie Bauer, sons: Michael (Darla) Bauer, Tim (Elise) Bauer, and William Bauer, 7 grandchildren: Renee (Darren) Winkelman, Nicole (James) Sigler, Beau (Brittany) Bauer, Zoe (Teresa) Bauer, Alyssa Bauer, Reagan Bauer, and Cash Bauer, 6 great grandchildren: Cullen, Camdyn, Campbell, Hartlee, Brae, and Palmer Bauer, and brother: Fred (Alice) Bauer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings - Bernard Bauer, Teresa Greer, Rose Strang, and Tom Bauer, as well as son: Edmond W Bauer and daughter: Nancy J Bauer.
A time of visitation will be held at St. Anne's Catholic Church, Monterey, on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM with the Rosary being recited at 1:30 PM EST.
Father John Keifer will officiate a Mass of Christian Burial at 2:00 PM EST. Burial will follow at St. Anne Cemetery, with military rites being performed.
The family suggests that you wear either Notre Dame or IU attire or dress casual. There will be a gathering at the Monterey School after the graveside service. Please join the family in retelling many fond memories of Bill.
Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
