Header Graphic
Gerald Bauer
September 16, 1953 - May 11, 2017

On May 11, 2017, Gerald ("Jerry") Lee Bauer, 63, of Oelwein, IA, passed away at Cedar Creek Golf Course in Ottumwa, IA, doing one of the things that he loved. Jerry had a big heart and lived his life serving others. His exceptional selflessness, warmth and kindness nurtured deep relationships with friends and family. When he wasn't spending time with family or helping others, Jerry was traveling with his wife to see his children and grandchildren, playing ball, reading, lecturing at Sacred Heart Church or serving the community through the Knights of Columbus as a Fourth Degree Knight.

Born on September 16, 1953, in Peoria, IL, Jerry was the third son and fourth child to Belva and Newton Bauer. He graduated from North Fayette in 1971 and earned his BA from Upper Iowa University in 1976, where he was also on the University baseball team and part of the Beta Theta Phi fraternity. Jerry dedicated over 35 years of his life as an insurance and investments broker with Life of Iowa, where he was part owner and Vice President at the time of his passing.

Jerry is survived by his wife, son and daughter. His wife of 39 years, Susan Bauer, was the love of his life. Susan earned her BS summa cum laude from Stevens College. Susan is involved in the Liturgy Committee at Sacred Heart Church and serves as a medical Coding Supervisor at a prominent hospital. Jerry's son, Christopher (Averi) Bauer, earned his BA from the University of Northern Iowa and his MBA from the University of Iowa. He manages IT operations within the business aviation industry. Chris has two daughters, Brynlee and Adalynn. Jerry's daughter, Sarah (Brian) Riedel, earned her BA from the University of Iowa and is pursuing her Executive MBA from Georgetown University. She manages a portfolio of customers within the clean energy sector. Sarah has a son and daughter, Spencer and Riley. Jerry encouraged his wife and children to push their limits and follow their dreams, and in the last few years Jerry especially enjoyed being a grandfather. The love that his wife, children, grandchildren and extended family received from Jerry is reciprocated in the deep love and admiration that they will always have for him. 

Jerry is also survived by his three siblings, Roger (Peggy) Bauer, Richard (Jane) Bauer, and Kathy (Doug) Davis, and many nieces and nephews.

The family will celebrate Jerry's life at the Geilenfeld Funeral Home in Oelwein on Friday, May 19, 2017, from 4 to 7 pm with a Knights of Columbus Rosary service at 4 pm and a vigil service at 7 pm. The funeral service will be held at Sacred Heart Church in Oelwein on Saturday, May 20, 2017, at 10:30 am. Internment will be at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Oelwein following the funeral service. A memorial fund has been established. For condolences, please visit www.geilenfeldfh.com

 

Add Comment

Ashlee Solheim on May 16, 2017 at 8:23 AM said:

So sorry for your loss! We all enjoyed spending fair week working aside Jerry in the commercial building booths. Last year He was especially fun, as he started paper airplane contests and helped others throw better! :)
Gay and Fran Bowden on May 15, 2017 at 3:13 PM said:

Susan, Chris, and Sarah

Gerry was our freshman pitcher for the Mason City 1969 Spring State Tournament game. Older brother Dick played in the outfield. This proved to be a real springboard as Gerry had a great HS career, and even greater college career at Upper Iowa and many years of playing with many other fine teams over the seasons. His infectious smile and positive personality affected all who knew him. He was one of the "hits" at the 40th team reunion in 2009. He was loved by all, spoken of so well just this last week by past teammates and friends, Jim Graham, Wendell Whitcher, and Tommy Grapes of BB and SB years.
His love and personality will be cherished and be with you forever. A great person who will truly be missed by so many. Our prayers are with you yduring this time of great personal loss.
John & Shelly Lydon on May 15, 2017 at 2:09 PM said:

We were saddened to hear about his sudden passing.... He was a great man and will miss calling him up for his advice and listening to his stories. Prayers to the family.
Tom Hoffmann Cedar Rapids on May 15, 2017 at 1:53 PM said:

Coming to know Gerry over the last few years I always liked his passion for helping others! He was very committed his faith, his family and his business. He will be missed by many.
Marcella Greco on May 15, 2017 at 1:30 PM said:

Susan,Chris,Sarah
My deepest sympathies to you during this very
difficult journey. He was such a wonderful person,
who will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
The Stibora Family - Houston, TX on May 15, 2017 at 12:57 PM said:

Please accept our deepest sympathies during this difficult time. Your family is in our continued prayers.
The Gene Turner Family - Cedar Rapids, Iowa on May 15, 2017 at 10:15 AM said:

Jerry was a long time softball teammate, opponent and most of all friend. He played with us on several state tournament teams and one World Tournament team. We played hard together, enjoyed each other's company tremendously and were always working together to keep fastpitch softball alive and going in Eastern Iowa. Our condolences to his family, he will be greatly missed.
Greg Dunn on May 15, 2017 at 9:51 AM said:

Dear Susan and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. It was a Honor to work with Jerry. He cared so much about his clients and always did the right thing. Jerry will be GREATLY missed by the industry, clients, friends and family. Just a wonderful Human Being.
Theresa Mahoney on May 15, 2017 at 9:32 AM said:

Susan and Family, I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and father. I pray you will find peace in this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Steve Dodson on May 15, 2017 at 9:25 AM said:

Susan, our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in this difficult time. In times like this, strong family ties and friends will help heal. Let me know if you need anything and I will be there for you.
Steve & Jennifer Jones on May 15, 2017 at 8:43 AM said:

Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. Love and prayers from your WCU family.
Geertsema Family on May 15, 2017 at 8:43 AM said:

Susan, Chris, Sarah & Families- We are heartbroken! You have our deepest sympathy at this time. May God uphold you and give you strength as you go down this path.
Sandy Grimm on May 15, 2017 at 8:25 AM said:

Oh Susan, my heart goes out to you. May you and your family feel the Peace of the Lord through prayers from our family. Take care.
Bob Rausch on May 15, 2017 at 7:27 AM said:

Susan, Christopher, Sarah, and the entire family.
It is hard for me to believe. Having had the honor of playing ball with Gerry at Upper Iowa, and the New Hampton town team, and then the privilege of being a partner for many years with Life of Iowa. Me passing away on a golf course, sure, but Gerry? No. For Brenda and me, our thoughts, and prayers to all of you.
Beth Bunn on May 15, 2017 at 7:05 AM said:

I am so shocked to see this. I have not seen Jerry in years but he always had a huge smile on his face and helped me in so many insurance dealings. He certainly will be missed by many. Many condolences to his family.

Add Comment

Geilenfeld-Buehner Funeral Home

309 1st Avenue NE  |  Oelwein, IA  50662  |  Phone:  319.283.4653

We welcome your comments and feedback about our website!
 Click here to send us your comments

 

© 2009- Geilenfeld-Buehner Funeral Home.   Site designed and hosted by Web Design by Duhrkopf