Mary Hortense Bauer

Surrounded by family and fortified with God’s love, Mary (Mimi) nee Musterman Bauer passed away peacefully Friday, August 28th, 16 days past her 81st birthday, after a short battle with cancer. Born in 1934, Mary was raised and lived with her Mom (Hortense), Dad (Edward), Sisters (Tudor & Shirley) and Brother (George) Musterman, in Overland during the years of World War II. Her experiences during that tumultuous time, coupled with the untimely death of her father, profoundly shaped her life and character. Even through those dark times her gentle spirit never turned bitter. Mary met the love of her life, Ronald Bauer, in high school and they married shortly thereafter. Ron served with the Marines in Korea and upon his return, they settled in North St. Louis County, where they had 2 sons (Michael & Kurt). Ron worked for McDonnell Aircraft and Mary worked as an apartment manager while also taking care of their home and the boys. Mary raised her sons with the same values she was taught. She was firm, but always with a loving hand. Her boys always knew where the line was and it was best not to cross it. By way of advice, she would always tell them to put themselves in the other person’s shoes and see how they would feel in whatever situation was under discussion. Ron and Mary had many happy years together. They were able to spend time with their grandson Andy and spent countless hours in their backyard pool with it seemed, just about everyone. All were welcome in their home. Her many nieces and nephews and their children brought her much joy and happiness. Renamed “Mimi” by Andy, along with “Pops” for Ron, those nicknames remain for both of them. Mimi and Pops celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary together surrounded by family, neighbors and a host of friends. Ron’s sudden passing in 2008 left Mimi missing him terribly. She bravely soldiered on without him, demonstrating to all her incredible heart and determination. Although sad and lonely, she refused to feel bitterness or self pity. She was always quick to laugh and never took herself too seriously. She could make a joke and take a joke. The age lines she earned and carried were all smile lines. We already miss that beautiful smile, her kind eyes and gentle voice saying “That’s all right”. We are comforted by the fact that she is free of pain and is with God, her husband, her mom & dad, her brother and all of her relatives in heaven. We are thankful for God’s blessing upon her and look forward to the day we will see her again. Mimi did not want a “Big Tadoo” at her passing. In keeping with her wishes, she will be buried privately at Jefferson Barracks where her beloved Ronnie awaits her. The family wishes to thank everyone for the tremendous outpouring of sympathy and prayers. We will honor her with a celebration of her life sometime in the coming days. We encourage everyone to share remembrances of Mary. Precious and Cherished Memories remain with Her Sons Michael (Kim) and Kurt (Linda); Her Sisters Orlie "Tudor" Musterman and Shirley (Lee) Rhoads; Grandson Andrew; Nieces, Nephews, Cousins and Friends.

Mary Hortense Bauer

August 12, 1934 - August 28, 2015