Robert “Bob” Alvin Bauer, age 91, passed away peacefully on Oct. 22, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born June 30, 1935, in Crete, to Alvin and Mary (Sand) Bauer.
Bob grew up loving farming and spent his younger years working alongside his father. He graduated from Crete High School in 1954 and married Joan D. Kurzen on Nov. 11, 1954. Shortly after, he joined the United States Army. Together, Bob and Joan raised seven children, and his family remained the most important part of his life.
Following his military service, Bob owned The Garbage Company, Blue Valley Drive-In and later spent many years serving Crete Public Schools as superintendent of grounds, transportation, and custodial services. He was also a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Joan; his brothers, Richard Bauer and Frank (Doris) Bauer; and his sisters-in-law, Ruth (Melvin) Rine, Marie (Ray) Gerdes, and Lucille Petracek.
He is survived by his seven children, Deb (Kevin) Miller of Corinth, Texas, Susan (Dennis) Bargman, and David (Patty) Bauer, both of Crete, Linda (Gregg) Easley of Dorchester, Pamela (Jack) Munter, Lori (Tim) Smejdir, and Christine (Tim) Reetz, all of Crete. He also leaves behind 20 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and his brother, Dr. Tom Bauer, and sister-in-law, Laura (Richard) Bauer.
Bob will be remembered for his strong work ethic, dedication to his community, and, above all, his deep love for his family. His legacy will live on through the many lives he touched and the generations of family who will forever cherish his memory.
Public visitation will begin Tuesday, Oct. 27, at 5 p.m. at Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete, followed by a Rosary beginning at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Crete. Memorial contributions are suggeste to the church.
Arrangements by Kuncl Funeral Home in Crete.
