Thomas H Bauer

Tom attended the University of Madison at Wisconsin and graduated with a degree in business. It was there that he met the love of his life, Janice Reukema and married her soon after graduation. Tom and Jan remained married for 52 years until her death on December 2, 2008.

Together they raised four daughters Terri Hutcherson, Laurie (Shane) Griswold, Tammy (Corey) Hutchison and Cindy Pixley. Tom and Jan traveled the world together and took their girls with them to many US destinations. It was always an adventure traveling as a family of 6 with two dogs tagging along.

Tom was never one to miss his 9 grandchildren’s sporting or special events. Kelli Hutcherson, Chanel (Jamie) Schlegel, Austen (Kendra) Hutchison, Maggie (Mac) Langenwalter, Aubree (Ian) White, Noah Griswold, Ryan Griswold, Rachel Pixley and Jack Pixley filled him with great joy. The entire clan celebrated every birthday and holiday together.

Tom spent his life working in sales for IBM Corporation. He started as a sales representative in 1956 and quickly moved up the management ranks which included working in IBM’s Newport Beach Regional office as a Regional manager. In his 30 years with IBM he amassed (20) 100% Clubs and (2) Golden Circles. A more successful career was NOT had by many. Most people do not know that Tom was credited with opening the Tucson, AZ sales office. It quickly grew into a large part of IBM’s business at which point it became a Branch Office with Tom at the helm. He also opened IBM’s first Product Center in CA. A retail store (much like Apple stores today) where you could go in and walk out with IBM typewriters and computers.

During the last 10 years of Tom’s life he was assisted around the clock by his caregiver Ramon Rival. During this time, Ramon became like a son to him. They swapped many stories of their lives from as far back as they could remember. The family could not have managed without Ramon’s 24/7 care of Tom and his help in getting Tom to all the family gatherings.

Tom was a lifelong Catholic, having spent some of his youth in the seminary only to discover his love for women. He attended mass nearly every week of his life until he was physically unable to attend.

Tom was proceeded in death by his parents Hugo/Erna Bauer (Gocker), his wife Jan Bauer (Reukema) his brothers Fred Bauer and Norman/Betty Bauer. As well as son-in-law John Hutcherson.

A celebration of life for Tom will take place for family and friends on July 18, 2022. At Pacific View Mortuary, 3500 Pacific View Drive, Corona Del Mar, CA.

Dad leaves his girls with unforgettable memories that we will carry in our hearts forever.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pacificviewcalifornia.com for the Bauer family.