On Wednesday, January 25, 2023 Jesus took Chuck by the hand to lead him home to the heavens above.
Charles A. Bauer Jr was born to Charles and Shirley Bauer on March 5, 1956 in Denver, Colorado. The eldest of five siblings, Chuck moved around a lot in his youth, mostly in the Denver area. After spending some time in Rhode Island, he made his way back west and eventually settled into country living in Laramie, Wyoming.
Educated in the School of Hard Knocks, whose colors were black and blue, Chuck became an elevator mechanic and served in this role for over 40 years. He married Angie in 2013 and they would have celebrated 10 years of wedded bliss on September 14th of this year.
Chuck was known by all for his booming laugh, which lit up every room he entered. Music lived deep in his soul, and he enjoyed any and all kinds. He relished playing his guitar- whether at home alone or in a band, rock music or worship-he just wanted to play. It didn’t matter if he had an audience or not- he played with abandon, even breaking a string on occasion. He enjoyed hiking, camping and fishing, though the camaraderie of whomever he was fishing with was more important to him than what bit the line.
As an elder of First Christian Church in Laramie, Chuck had the joy of preaching on occasion and guiding people in considering God’s Word. He did not, however, limit his interaction with people to church; rather, if you made eye contact, you were sure to become Chuck’s friend.
At home Chuck had the best companion in their dog Callie, who liked to ride around with him in the old truck with his special “truck hat.” Cisco the cat enjoyed draping himself around Chuck’s shoulders and head-butting him for attention. Riding motorcycles brought Chuck many adventures over the years, and was his favorite way to enjoy travel and discovering new places.
Chuck had a passion for connecting and ministering with guys in jail, with addiction, and just down on their luck. He was very patient when someone didn’t share his beliefs, recognizing the need to meet people right where they are. He had a beautiful way of being able to discern what people needed and how to reach them.
The grandkids were a source of delight to Chuck. He got really good at playdough animals over time. He enjoyed camping with them and taking them out on the kayaks. He felt so much joy when he could spend time with his boys and the grandkids. Whether it be motorcycle riding or camping, he simply enjoyed being with his family.
Chuck persevered through the long journey of cancer before going home to be with Jesus. He is survived by his wife Angie Bauer, two wonderful sons and five beautiful grandchildren, whom he loved dearly, as well as a loving brother and sister.
Memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 4, 2023 at First Christian Church in Laramie, officiated by Pastor Mike Berry. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Chuck’s name to Hospice of Laramie, 1754 Centennial Dr. Laramie, WY 82070.
Chuck was a great guy who helped and cared for everyone that he met. He will be missed, but the positive impact he left upon so many will live on forever. Rest in peace, Chuck. My condolences and prayers to his family.
Angie, I am so sorry about your loss. I haven't known you a long time, but I learned how much you and Chuck loved each other. Anything I can do, you know how to reach me. Lots of love. LuAnn and Hank Herkstroeter
Rest in peace chuck. Until we meet again, watch over us. Amen. Alicia Gonzales
This is hard. Everything I can think to say at this point comes from a very selfish place, and that embarrasses me. Chuck was...Chuck, and I wish the world was full of people like Chuck, but maybe it's better that's not the case, because I would tend to take Chucks for granted. I was chatting with another of Chuck's friends, and this is the best conclusion I can come up with. I mean it, sincerely, from the very depths of my heart, exactly as Chuck would have insisted -- ... "...but then I think "what would Chuck's always-peculiar-and-spot-on wisdom be here?"" "Ray, you need to get out of your own damn head already, and start thinking of those around you. That is why you're here, why I'm here, why any of us are here..." God, listen to me -- I'd really like to be like Chuck, even just a little. He certainly set a wonderful example. Seriously, I can best honor my Friend and Brother by doing what he did. So I need some help here... Chuck, you, and me, and Richard Morris, and Duane Allman, are all going to get together over yonder, and pick a bit without concern for time or volume. Please keep an amp warm for me, and tell Richard and Bill and Dusty howdy. I love you Brother. We love you Angie.
My heart breaks for Angie. Loved Chuck so much We had been friends for 20 years, we talked once or twice a week, most of the time. If you ever met Chuck he was a your friend. Find myself missing him now. Thanks for being my friend. Chuck never said goodbye, so I know he will be with us.
Chuck was a wonderful man and I know my Laramie family is going to miss him deeply. I enjoyed meeting him and seeing how he instilled the love for music and helping to teach my nieces to play with their hearts. I'm sure Jesus is enjoying the laughter and music with him in heaven along with the angels. Wonderful memories to hold on to while grieving his loss.
I often got the privelidge of hearing Chuck witness to many people on campus when he was the elevator repairman. He had the best laugh ever, and I'm sure if we listen close enough we can hear it booming down from Heaven every once in awhile. My condolonces to his family, he will be missed.
Chuck was a much loved member of the Laramie Jail Christian Ministry team. He especially became a favorite of the male inmates who looked forward to his visits, and later prayed for his health battles. He will be greatly missed in that ministry as well as his other ministries and musical outreaches. Yes, his explosive booming laugh is a big representation of his unique personality, but his character was better defined by his desire to become more like Jesus in his love, compassion, mercy, and grace toward all. May God grant us all comfort and peace as we reflect on Chuck's joy in the presence of our Lord Jesus.
So sorry to hear o6 Brother Chucks passing. Sending love and prayers to family
I was so sad to here about Chuck passing. I was shocked when Teri told me. I'm sorry but I didn't know the cancer had came back. I will get ahold of you when things calm down for you. So sorry miss Angie! 😢
Well you certainly hit all the notes with the lovely obituary. School of hard knocks you bet. Booming laugh definitely. Chuck was my helper in the trade for a couple of years. But that doesn't mean he knew less than me. I like to think we learned a lot from each other over the years. And not just about elevators. He was very soulful and a deep thinker. He really had a hand on life and I enjoyed our talks. Appreciated his honesty and directness. I'm glad he knew God. Ride on I'll miss you pal. Steve Pomranka aka EXTRA MEDIUM
Beautiful obituary and a very fitting tribute to a huge personality with an even bigger heart.
Chuck was a pleasure to work with - always free with a smile and a funny story. And always willing to teach me something about elevators! He was already missed when he retired and now more so. Sending condolences for your loss.
To all grieving the loss of Chuck I offer my condolences. I had worked with Chuck about 4 years and in that time I learned so much about life, love, and elevators that I couldn't possibly put it here. I'll forever treasure these memories of him and can't wait to have a laugh or two again with him.
My heart goes out to you, Angie. Chuck was such a special person. I am glad I got to know you both before we left Laramie.
So very sorry for your loss, may Gods loving arms hold you tight. My thoughts and prayer are with you.
OMG😥 I am sorry Angie for your loss. Wish I could be there for you but stuck at home and deep snow. Please know that Larry and I are sending hugs to you. I only met Chuck once or twice, but you are my life long friend forrever. Even though I cant be there, know my HEART AND PRAYERS are with you.❣️
Oh, I am so sad to see this. I'm sure heaven is an even more joyful place with Chuck in its midst, but how we will all miss him! He had such a love and concern for others; such a love for the Lord; such a zest for life. I am grateful that he isn't suffering anymore, but still heavy hearted at his passing. Angie, you are in my prayers. I know God has special care for you and pray you see His hand mighty on your behalf. Love, Claire Hitchcock
Angie....Chuck will be greatly missed at Biscuits and Jam and in the community. He was definitely a music man. Sending my sincere sympathy. Valorie
This just breaks my heart. Chuck was such a great guy! I am so very sorry Angie. As you know, Gods got You! Prayers and hugs to you and the family! Love you. Tawnie
We are so sorry for the loss of Chuck he was a great person we will miss his laugh Roy and Susan Alms
I’m so sorry for your loss, he was truly a unique and beautiful soul, my condolences for your loss