I went to Army basic training and advanced infantry training in Ft Benning Georgia in the summer of 1999. Tom was in my platoon. He was one of the biggest and strongest in our group, and I never recall him having a mean word to say. He was a good soldier, and he was a reliable buddy when you needed a hand. I remember we voted him most likely to become a Green Beret as the platoon was about to graduate, and that was about the highest respect you could bestow on a fellow Infantryman's reputation. For some reason, I had been thinking about his name recently, and to discover this just happened weeks ago. My condolences to his family, and may he continue protecting and helping from above. 

I was in the US Army with Tom at Schofield barracks Hawaii .. Tom was a phenomenal soldier and even a better friend . I’m lost for words due to the fact I just found out about Tom’s passing today…( 11-7-21)  I just  wanna say the world is at a loss . Im sure whoever has worked side by side with Tom knew the job would get done, that they would be safe and looked at Tom as a brother . Im sorry I’ll write more later I gotta stop for now 

I met Tom when I went with Judd Pulley and his girls over 4th of July weekend a few years back to spend the weekend with them and I was very blessed to meet Tom, his wife, and his family! I enjoyed the time I had with them. I thanked Tom for his service. Tom set fireworks off the deck and was a lot of fun. He will be missed. 

My deepest heartfelt sympathies to the entire Bauer family and of course to his wife and children, and all who had the joy of knowing him, loving him, and being part of his world. 

I went to school with Tom for many years- grade school and high school. I am actually in one of the pics the family shared- a Christmas play- he played Joseph and me Mary. 

I will always remember him for having a depth of character, confidence, and authenticity. It was no surprise he went on to so brave things- serving in the military and a firefighter. 

I can only imagine the deep pain of your loss, may peace wash over your hearts and may the memories of all the moments you shared live on within you.

 I do believe one of the best ways we can honor those we lose is to make the parts of them that we loved so dearly a richer part of ourselves- so that we can embody the things we loved most about a person and weave it into our own self. By doing that we honor the person we love, keep the spirit of them alive, and remain inextricably linked across space and time. 

To love another is one of the greatest gifts life can bring which makes the loss of them even harder but to know that you shared in love with them is a light in the darkness. 

May your hearts be comforted . 
Alana 

The entire Bardauskis family including my parents and sisters extend their sympathies to you as well.  Take comfort in the family that surrounds you- may they be a shelter for you in this. 

To the Bauer family

Jon and I want to express how sad we are to hear of your loss. I have always appreciated your friendship.  
May his memory be eternal.           

Love and prayers
Rose and Jonathan Cook      





I am so saddened to hear of Tom's passing. It seems like a lifetime ago when we were teenagers together. His loyalty, commitment and courage make it seem like just yesterday. His character will forever inspire me. My sincerest condolences to  his family and all who knew him. He will be deeply missed. 
Rest easy, mate.

Rest in Peace Tom,
You were a best friend and a brother to me. I cherish my teenage memories of you. I feel so proud of you and for what you have accomplished in your life. My heart breaks for your family and friends.
Sincerest condolences to Leo Mary Kelly Sheila Laura and children.

Rest easy Bauer. 
  If only I could get one more hug, one more pep talk cause you guys always give the best pep talks. Thank you for the amazing memories and best teaching moments. 

Bauer, 
     Thank you for the best memories at the Station when I came for ride along Saturdays and Sundays. It’s hard to see my guys go and I don’t think it will ever be easy. Love you and miss you like crazy. 

Kelly -

We are so sorry for your loss. We loved hanging with you and Tom at baseball games, cross country meets, BBQs, school and social events. Gregg and Tom had a great dad bond over music, food, cigars, the outdoors and more, Mason loved goofing around with Tom at Starved Rock, Great America, the Wheeling pool, waterparks and everywhere else. Mark and his friends will always remember ‘John Cena.’ 

The Wolpoffs will always remember Tom fondly as a friend and great man. 

Love,
Vicki, Gregg, Mason, Mark & Matt Wolpoff

I am so saddened to hear of Tom's death.  What a loss to our family & community. I didn't know Thomas but I grew up with his Mom, Mary & Aunt Sheila. He was part of a marvelous tribe, now diminished by his death.  May your many wonderful memories of Tom & his contributions to his country & community sustain you all during the coming years.  My thoughts & prayers are with you during this time of mourning. 

Leo, Mary,Sheila, Laura and Tom's family,
Wonderful memories dragging Heidi, Laura and Tommy to Sheila and Jennifer's cheerleading competitions. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

I have been friends with his Aunt Sheila since kindergarten so I have many fond Memories of her family.  I have watched through her eyes  many of her memories of Tom from birth to the present. 
He has brought so much happiness to all in the past.  We need to remember the Joy he gave us.
He is is my prayers.


Kelly, Ty and family, 
Pleases accept our deepest condolences. So sorry to hear of Tom’s passing.  Tom was such a fun baseball dad to watch and chat with.  He loved being off shift to watch Ty and the BlueJays play.  May you find comfort in all your fond memories.    We will keep you all in our prayers.  💙 With Love from your BlueJay baseball  family! The Daly’s 

OBITUARY

Thomas J. Bauer

May 29, 1980 – October 22, 2021

Oehler Funeral Home

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