Geraldine T "Geri" Bauer
Geraldine Theresa “Geri” Bauer, age 89, died Sunday, October 21, 2012, at the Assisted Living of Durand, with her family by her side.
Geri was born on August 3, 1923, in Durand. She was the daughter of Harold and Annabel (Bauer) Will. She grew up in the Lima area of rural Durand and graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Lima. From a young age, Geri was cared for by Frank and Lucy Koller, who raised and cared for her like a daughter. Geraldine married Lawrence X. Bauer on May 11, 1942 at Holy Rosary Church in Lima. After marriage, they farmed and raised their family in Lima Township. In 1978, Geraldine and Lawrence moved to Durand after selling the farm to their son, John. Geraldine worked at the then Erickson’s Grocery store in the bakery/deli starting in February of 1980 until about 1986. Her husband, Lawrence, passed away in 1993. On May 7, 2012, Geraldine moved to the Assisted Living of Durand residence where she was lovingly cared for until the Lord asked her home.
Geraldine was a deeply spiritual woman who had a devoted affection for God, the angels and many of the Saints. She dearly loved to teach her children and grandchildren the importance of God in their lives and to always take time to talk to Him as their Friend. Reading was her passion and she displayed an extensive library of books. Geraldine enjoyed many hobbies, such as playing the organ, playing cards and painting
beautiful pictures, which she would eventually share with family members. She also liked going for walks, watching the birds, listening to music, and going for car rides to enjoy the artistry of nature. Geraldine’s eyes failed her in the later years but she never stopped looking for the better alternative as audio books became very important to her. Geraldine loved spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren.
Geri is survived by her children, Gary L. (Cleo Kitchner) of Wisdom, Mt., Mary Ann (Jim Cooper) of Sarasota, Fl., James L. (Brenda), Robert A. “Bert” (Monica J.), SueAnn (Mark Hurlburt), all of Durand, 17 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, one foster sister, Lynn (Arly) Scheckles of De Witt, Ia., nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence X. Bauer, foster parents, Frank and Lucy Koller, son, John E. Bauer, two brothers, Harold Jr. and Robert Will
and much loved cat, Fifi.