James Webster Bauer

James (Jim) Webster Bauer, age 90, of Battle Creek, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2023, at Hillside AFC.  He was born January 8, 1933, in Toledo, OH, the son of Winfried and Lena (Porter) Bauer.  Jim graduated from Blissfield High School in 1950 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Michigan in 1955.  Jim was united in marriage to Paula L. Bargemann on July 30, 1955, at the Park Congregational Church in Grand Rapids.

After graduation, Jim embarked on a distinguished 40-year career as an architect.  His professional journey saw him contribute to several firms before starting his own successful practice.  Early in his career, he proudly served his country for two years in the US Army, stationed at Fort Bliss, El Paso, TX.  Jim was a respected member of several national and state organizations including the National Council of Architect Registration Board, the Architect Registration Examination Committee, the State of Michigan Board of Architects, and the State Board of Professional Engineers.  He was equally engaged with the local community.  Between 1976 and 1984, he played an active role on the Lakeview School Board, holding positions as treasurer, secretary, and president.  He was also deeply involved with Lifespan Board of Directors, serving as president for two years, the Battle Creek Health System Board of Directors, the Calhoun Area School Board Association, Visiting Nurse Services of Southern Michigan, the Kimball House Historical Museum Board, the Lakeview Kiwanis, and the Lakeview School District Citizen Advisory Committee, along with the Battle Creek Rotary and the Battle Creek Daycare Board.  Jim was a member of the First Congregational Church in Battle Creek, where he supported the Church Council.  As a prior member of Westlake Presbyterian Church, he volunteered his time on the Church Cabinet for Strategy & Development, and Planning Committee.  Additionally, he extended his support to the Battle Creek Boys Choir Board of Directors.  Upon retirement, Jim enjoyed his enthusiasm for photography, reading, geography, and travel.  Together, Jim and his late wife, Paula, found immense joy in exploring diverse cultures and cuisines.  Their travels took them to various corners of the world, including Germany, Italy, Brazil, Mexico, India, Singapore, Turkey, and Morocco, as well as multiple cruises on the rivers of Europe and beyond.

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife, Paula L. Bauer.  He is survived by his sons, James W. Bauer Jr. of Plainfield, IL., John W. Bauer of Suwanee, GA., daughter Cynthia J. Bauer of Forest Park, IL, and five cherished grandchildren, Andrew, Justin, Robert, Chelsea, and Levi.

Funeral services will be held 12:00 p.m. (noon), on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, where the family will welcome friends one hour prior to the service.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the University of Michigan Alumni Association c/o Battle Creek Community Foundation.  Condolences for the family may be left at www.henryfuneralhome.org