John E. Bauer, 73


John Edward Bauer passed away on August 17, 2024, at 73, in Surprise, Arizona. He was born on July 10, 1951, in Omaha, Nebraska, where he spent most of his life. He graduated from South High School in 1969, where he met the love of his life, Suzy. John and Suzy shared 53 years in a devoted marriage, nurtured by family, friends, laughter, and love.

John owned and operated Bauer Drywall for over four decades. A successful small businessman, his drywall craft and expertise are contained in thousands of homes in the greater Omaha area. With an unassailable reputation for honesty and integrity, John was a credit to the spirit of small and family business.

In his personal time, John took pleasure in classic cars, baseball, and Husker sports. He restored a 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air and later enjoyed cruising in his 1966 Chevelle Super Sport. Mickey Mantle was his childhood idol, and John cheered avidly for the New York Yankees throughout his life, even visiting Yankee Stadium in 2013. He never wavered in his steadfast belief that there was no better place to watch a ballgame than Rosenblatt Stadium. Like many Nebraskans, he enjoyed watching the Huskers on college football Saturdays but also flew the flag to support Husker baseball in the spring.

John’s life was enriched through family and friends. John and Suzy opened their home and delighted in hosting Christmas parties, Easter brunches, and countless birthday celebrations and summer barbecues. John enjoyed grilling burgers and steaks as well as the art of smoking brisket and ribs. He liked a cold beer with good company, and was always quick with a well-timed quip for a well-intentioned laugh. His love of humor included movies like “Caddyshack” and “The Life of Brian."

John is survived by his wife, Susan, son, John (Noelle Jaroch), and daughter, Teri, as well as siblings Tom (Judy) and Marylin (Jerry Sidzyik), plus many nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary Bauer, and sister, Joan. He was happiest when called “Papa,” and there was a special place in his heart for Alana, Callum, and Ross.

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