Joe Bauer, 93, of West Chester, Iowa, passed away Thursday, May 13, 2021, at his daughter’s residence in Coralville after failing in health.
Celebration of life services were held Tuesday, May 18, 2021, at the West Chester United Methodist Church. Interment was at the Elm Grove Cemetery in Washington, Iowa. Memorials have been established for the West Chester United Methodist Church or Hospice of Washington County. Online condolences may be sent for Joe’s family through the web at www.jonesfh.com
Joe was born Nov. 1, 1927, in Washington, Iowa, the son of Roy and Dot (Dusenberry) Bauer. He graduated from West Chester High School where he was a star quarterback for the football team.
Joe was united in marriage to Janet Reif on Dec. 27, 1947, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. The couple was a great model for marriage, having been married for 70 years until Janet’s death in 2018.
Joe farmed and devoted his entire life to his family Century Farm near West Chester. He was an active member of the West Chester United Methodist Church where he served as a trustee and was a church youth leader. Joe enjoyed sharing a cup of coffee with his dear friends at the Exporter Elevator and loved to spend time in Florida with his beloved wife Janet. Joe loved his church, his farm, and most importantly, his family. He cherished time spent teasing and tickling his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by son: Robert (Lori) Bauer of Washington; daughters: Vicky (Don) Showalter of Coralville, Jane (Jim) Beranek of Cedar Falls, Judy Showalter of Kalona, and friend Jim Windy; 11 grandchildren: Chris (Jody) Bauer, Matt (Bethany) Bauer, Melissa (Scott) Kahler, Brent (April) Showalter, Jami Beranek and friend Ryan Beckman, Jonna (Zach) Junker, Jenni (Ryan) Cunningham, Jessi Beranek, Annie (Luke) Gingerich, Chad (Sarah) Showalter, and Josh (Katie) Showalter; and 27 great-grandchildren.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his wife: Janet; great-grandson: Elijah Cunningham; and brothers: John Richard and Robert Lee Bauer.
