John Bauer, age 92, died at his home in rural Arnold, Kansas on December 21, 2016.  He was born November 20, 1924 in rural Arnold, Kansas the son of Conrad and Katie Kraft Bauer.

He was a veteran of the United States Army having served in World War II.  He was a farmer and dairyman. and a member of the Ransom VFW, Post 7972.  No one who met John ever forgot him.  He worked in a jewelry store as a young man and was forever fascinated by clocks and watches.  He loved working with wood and his motto was, "Measure once, cut twice," leading to some interesting home improvement projects.

He was full of mischief, leaving his family with endless stories and countless memories that will forever make them smile to remember him.

When he met Jo, he knew he would marry her and he loved her until the day he died.  We know they are enjoying a raucous reunion.

His life is celebrated and his loss is mourned.

On January 11, 1948, he married Josephine Schwartzkopf in Utica, Kansas.  She preceded him in death on July 2, 1999.

John is survived by his 11 children: Carole Wolfe, Minneola, Lynetta Skaggs, Dodge City, Del Bauer, Lyons, Sylvia Bauer, Arnold, Judy Lee, Dodge City, Linda (Earl) Ummel, Ransom, Mark Bauer, Utica, Ruth Bauer, Utica, Juanita (Kelvin) Ottley, Oakley, Jake Bauer (Deb Goodrich), Oakley, and Beatrice Bauer, Utica; two sisters: Verda Ochs, Arnold and Anna Mollenkamp, Ness City; 21 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren and lots of great-great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, eight brothers: Jake, Godfried, Raymond, Herman, Dave, Charles, Curt, and Robert Bauer; sister: Lanora Edwards; three grandchildren: Letha and Ben Ummel and Nick Andrews; son-in-law, James Wolfe; and daughter-in-law, Pat Bauer.

Funeral service will be on Monday, December 26, 2016, 2:00 P.M. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Ness City with burial in the Arnold Cemetery.  There will be a military graveside service conducted by the McKinstry-Jones American Legion Post 380 and the Sons of the American Legion Squadron, joined by the Fort Wallace Cavalry Tribute Troop.

Viewing at the funeral home on Saturday from 9:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M. and on Sunday from Noon until 6:00 P.M.

Contributions may be given to the McKinstry-Jones American Legion Post 380, Utica, Kansas.  Words of sympathy and support may be left for the family by signing the guest book at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com