JAMES BAUER

James Peter Bauer James (Jim) Peter Bauer, 64, passed away July 10, 2012 at his home in Surprise, Arizona with family by his side. Jim was born in Madison, MN on Sept 25, 1947 to Fred and Martha (Croatt) Bauer. After the death of his parents he was raised by his uncle and aunt, Charles and Sylvia Croatt. He grew up in and attended school in Madison and technical school in Willmar, MN. In 1968 he was drafted into the army and served in the Vietnam War. He received a purple for injuries sustained in the war. On May 8, 1971 he married Marcia Wittmeir at the Pollock Presbyterian Church in Pollock, SD. After their marriage they made their home in Phoenix, AZ. They had two children; David and Tammy. In 1993 they moved to Rapid City, SD where they spent the next 13 years. In 2006 they moved back to Arizona to be closer to children and grandchildren. Jim enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. They always knew if something was broken "Grandpa could fix it". He was known for his great sense of humor and his determination was an inspiration to many. Jim is survived by his wife Marcia of 41 years; son David and daughter Tammy and David Baker. Grandchildren; Rhonda, Dylan, Colten, Joshua, Emily; Siblings Robert Bauer, Jane Bauer and Betty and Mike Raasch. Polly and Roger Galbraith, Bonnie and John Schacherer, Peter and DeAnn Croatt, Marti and Richard Mueller, Mary and Bill Fagin, Steven and Carole Croatt, Anne and Eugene Maniscalo. Mother and Father-in-law; Donald and Iva Wittmeier, Brothers and sisters-in-law; Dean and Linda Wittmeier and Michael and Joan Wittmeier and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.