William Oliver Bauer

William Oliver Bauer died peacefully with his family by his side Sunday, Feb. 25.

He was survived by his wife Pat of 57 years, his son Bill and daughter Amy. He was blessed with four wonderful grandchildren: Mikaela, Julia, Bill and Diego.

He was born Aug. 15, 1935, to Marie (Schafer) and William F. Bauer. He graduated from Ritzville High School in 1954, University of Washington in 1958, and University of Washington Banking School in 1970.

He was a career banker with U.S. Bank since 1959. He held various positions with increasing responsibility, culminating his career as V.P. and chief financial officer for the Southern Region of Oregon. He served on the board of Lane Community College in Eugene, Oregon, for 10 years and served as president for one year.

He was a strong and thoughtful provider and a dedicated family man. He enjoyed carrying on his German traditions of making sausage, sauerkraut, and preserving food from his 10-acre ranch.

He retired to Florence, Oregon, where he spent time following the stock market and playing a great game of pool. He often won by using his ever-changing “Ritzville Rules”.

As a very remarkable man, he will be missed by all who knew him.