Keith Bauer

Keith H. Bauer went to meet our Lord Jesus Christ Thursday, Sept. 20, 2007, at home, after an illness at the age of 56. Don't be sad, for Keith is with the Lord and rejoice in knowing that!

Keith was born May 25, 1951, in Chicago, to George W. and Marion Howard Bauer. He was united in marriage to Karen L. Eaker at Gordonville March 19, 2000.

Keith was an excellent athlete, playing football and baseball in high school and winning many awards. He received a baseball scholarship to Illinois State, Bloomington-Normal, Ill.

He was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds as a pitcher, but shortly after he injured his shoulder he pursued a family career in sales.

He was a Christian musician who reached a lot of people all over the United States. Mr. Bauer was a Christian and referred to himself as a "Child of Christ," not a denomination or religion. He loved the Lord very much and showed it daily with people he came in contact with.

Mr. Bauer was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved the outdoors and nature in itself. He has several mounts to show his love of hunting.

Keith served in the National Guard from 1971 to 1977 during the Vietnam War. He served proudly for his country and would have again if needed.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen, of their home in Benton; three daughters, Kristin (Kevin) McQuillan of Pennsylvania, Kim (Toby) Russell of San Diego, Jackie Bauer of Fox Lake, Ill., two sons, David Bauer of San Diego, Justin Eaker of Cape Girardeau; his mother, Marion Bauer of Stuart, Fla.; three brothers, George (Helen) Bauer of Twin Lakes, Wis., Eric Bauer of California, Glen Bauer of Stuart; two uncles, Wilbert (Delores) Bauer of Boerne, Texas, Charles Bauer of Benton; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Also survived by two granddaughters, Kylie and Katie McQuillan of Pennsylvania, and a grandson on the way due Jan. 28, 2008. Also survived by in-laws, the Rev. Naamon and Dottie Eaker of Cape Girardeau; a sister-in-law, Kim (Brad) Moore of Cape Girardeau and their children, Jerica Moore of Cape Girardeau, Carissa and Nathan Bragg of Boston. Also survived by Bonita Bauer and Sue Otto, very special friends, plus many additional friends including Julie Krongos, who was like a sister to Keith.

He was preceded in death by a son, Jason Bauer; father, George Bauer; maternal and paternal grandparents.

A private eulogy service was held Saturday.

Amick-Burnett Funeral Chapel in Scott City was in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests planting a tree or flower in Keith's memory.