Jerome J. Bauer
Jerome Joseph Bauer, age 77, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2023, at The Wisconsin Veteran’s Home of Chippewa Falls, held in the loving grace of God, family and friends.
Jerome was born in October 1945 to parents, Joseph R. and Helen (Radle) Bauer, of Rock Falls, WI. He was the eldest son and second of eight siblings. He grew up on the family farm in Rock Falls. He attended local schools, and graduated from Durand High School in 1963. Jerome developed a love for fishing, hunting, snowmobiling and the Green Bay Packers.
Jerome served in the United States Air Force as a Propeller Systems Repairman and was stationed at Incirlik Air Force Base, Turkey, during the Vietnam War era. An innovative mechanic and natural leader, Airman Bauer developed a light-weight portable propeller stand for use when changing C-130 propellers which was patented by Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company. The device saved infinite tax-payer dollars for the repair of damaged propeller cuffs. He completed his service commitment at the rank of Sergeant.
He returned to Rock Falls after his military service, purchased the family dairy farm, and completed several farm management and agricultural courses at Chippewa Valley Technical College. In October 1970, Jerome married his beloved wife, Kay Sievwright (Arkansaw, WI), and together they raised two children.
Jerome was a leader in his community serving as the local town chairman, founding the Rock Creek Volunteer Fire Department and serving as Fire Chief for several years. Jerome served 30 years as Secretary/Treasurer on the Board of Directors for West Wisconsin Telcom Cooperative. In addition, he was a member of the Durand American Legion Post 181. He also loved singing during Sunday Mass as a member of St. Joseph’s Church Choir. Jerome was recognized by the American Red Cross as being a Community Hero for his commitment and selfless service to his community.
Jerome took great pride in his family, farm, and community. In his free time, he loved to spend time fishing, hunting, camping and playing cards with his family and friends. He was fun-loving, and it wasn’t uncommon to see a mischievous twinkle light up his eye with a quick joke and his distinctive chuckle. He had an outstanding reputation and an unwavering loyalty.
In the years, prior to his death, Jerome was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and was cared for in his Rock Falls home by Kay, until he became a resident at the WI Veteran’s Home due to declining health.
Jerome is survived by his wife of 52 years, Kay, his children, Chaplain, Major (USAF) Tara (Charlotte), and Robert (Jennifer), his grandchildren, Elijah and Adeline, as well as four sisters, Dorothy Thompson, Marilyn Koller both of Eau Claire, Carol (Larry) Prissel of Durand, Jean (Jim) Lecheler of Grange Hall, and three brothers, Ronald (Bev) Bauer of Rock Falls, Dennis (Sandy) Bauer of Eau Claire, James (Jean) Bauer of Mondovi, and many nieces/nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-laws, Ross Thompson, Francis Koller, Henry Hince, and a grandson, James Jerome, along with many beloved relatives, and friends.
Jerome will be deeply missed but will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Rock Creek Fire Dept., N995 County Road H, Mondovi, WI 54755 or St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Rock Falls
Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM Monday April 3, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Rock Falls, with Rev. Timothy Welles officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 t0 7:00 PM Sunday at Rhiel Funeral Home in Durand and one hour prior to services at the church on Monday.