John William Bauer

John William Bauer passed away peacefully with his family by his side on February 12, 2014, after nearly a two year battle with ALS. John was born in Rockford, IL, on October 3, 1971, to Edward J. Bauer and Janice M. (Fisher) Bauer. He was a loving father, son, brother and friend and was cherished and very much loved by his entire family and many friends. John attended Rockford schools and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1989. John was a Precision Grinder at Valley Jig Grinding, Inc. in Rockford, IL for the past 16 years.

John was the very proud Father of three beautiful daughters, Taylor, McKenna and Lauren. They were the light of his life and the joy in his world. They are what kept John going and kept a smile on his face through his difficult journey with ALS.

John loved life! He loved his family, friends, his dog Bella, fishing, fantasy football, Green Bay Packers, sports and outdoor activities, country music, pulling pranks and practical jokes, neighborhood gatherings and making sure people were having a good time. John touched the hearts of everyone that knew him.

Thank you to all of the family, special friends and caregivers that have helped carry John through the hardship of the last two years. Your kindness, generosity and love will never be forgotten.

Survivors include: Daughters, Taylor, McKenna and Lauren Bauer, Father, Edward J. (Rosemary) Bauer, Brother, Jeffrey (Joy) Bauer, Sisters, Jodi (Jason Gates) Kyle, Natalae K. Bauer, Juli Meier. Nieces, Cortni Kyle, Chelsea Kyle, Jordanka Bauer, Nephews, Christian Bauer and John Meier. Several Aunts, Uncles and Cousins. He is also survived by numerous close friends. He was predeceased by his Mother, Janice M. (Fisher) Bauer and both sets of Grandparents. He was beloved by all. He will be deeply missed.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory (Mulford Chapel) 1860 S. Mulford Road Burial in Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2014 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory (Mulford Chapel) Visitation will continue from 10 to 10:45 am Wednesday morning. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Serenity Hospice House, 1658 Illinois 2, Oregon, IL 61061.