Mr. Frank Bauer

Born in Wakaw, Saskatchewan on November 4, 1920, Frank was the eldest son of Theresa and Frank Bauer. As a young man Frank worked as an auto mechanic in his hometown, until he entered the Second World War in 1940 as a member of the Air Force. Through his work as an aero-engine mechanic in the 412 Spitfire Squadron, Frank’s sound mechanical-knowledge of the ‘Supermarine Spitfire’ and other military aircraft helped underwrite the defeat of the German Luftwaffe and success of the D-Day Invasion. After the war, Frank continued his military service until he retired as Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) in 1976. Among his military achievements, Frank received: the Order of Military Merit (MMM); Canadian Forces’ Decoration (CD); and France’s National Order of the Legion of Honour (Ordre national de la Légion d'honneur) for his participation in the Battle of Normandy, Battle of the Bulge and Liberation of France.

Frank was predeceased by his first wife Norma, two brothers Hank and John, and is survived by his sisters Anne Hendrickson and Dorothy Anthony, as well as his loving wife Elizabeth with whom he was married for 32 years.

Frank spent many wonderful years amongst the warmth of the family from his second marriage, including: children Geoffrey (Deborah), Daniel (Dorothea); grandchildren Christina (Paul), Vanessa (Paul), Heather, David (Meighen); as well as nine great-grandchildren. Some of the happiest memories with the Cooney kinsfolk include summer trips to Frank’s cabin at Scott Island, and countless Christmas celebrations spent throughout the prairies and on the West Coast. Frank was a central figure within this extended family, who will fondly remember his soft-spoken strength, good-natured humour and kind spirit.

A Funeral Service celebrating the life of Frank Bauer will be held at St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church, 33333 Mayfair Ave, Abbotsford, BC on Tuesday, October 18, 2016 at 11:00 am.

Arrangements under the direction of Henderson's Fraser Valley Funeral Home, Abbotsford, BC.