Dr. Robert E. Bauer

Dr. Robert E. Bauer

February 8, 1932 - February 20th, 2024

Bob was born in Columbia City, Indiana on February 8th, 1932 to Francis and Ethel (Heintzelman) Bauer. As a child, he was known to cause mischief, a trait that continued throughout his life. Favorite childhood activities included creating a variety of explosions from his chemistry set and collecting wild animals and reptiles, many that were poisonous.

For college, Bob chose the School of Optometry at Indiana University where he met the love of his life, Suzanne. They built a beautiful life together spanning over 60 years.

After college they moved to Chatham to start his optometry practice, Bass River Optometrics, which later grew to numerous locations spanning from Wellfleet to Falmouth. One of their favorite homes was a windmill they built together nestled in the dunes at the mouth of Swan River. A founding member of the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra, Bob was a talented French horn player but equally enjoyed playing the trumpet, organ and ukulele. In addition, he was a gifted woodworker and ship model builder and in later years opened Bass River Boatworks. He enjoyed a fast motorcycle ride and was a car enthusiast and collector. He also loved his time on the water windsurfing, boating and fishing; however, he especially loved Cuban cigars and a good glass of whatever.

Bob and Sue had three daughters, Paige, Parris and Patrice (John Fallon), five grandchildren, Ashley Bilodeau (Nils), Kourtney Keil (Steven), John Fallon III, Sara Fallon, and Alison Barrett, and four great-grandchildren, Jackson, Carter, Casey and newest addition, Iyla.

He spent his last years in Naples, FL having relocated permanently in 2013 after being a snowbird for 15 years. He knew how to live life and did so exactly as he pleased up until the last weeks of his life, much to the dismay of those around him. Known as a character and to some, even a legend. May he rest in peace. Services will be private.