Donald "Smoke" T Bauer

Donald "Smoke" T. Bauer, a devoted family man and spirited traveler, passed away peacefully at his residence on December 29, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on January 6, 1938, in Richland Center, Wisconsin, Donald was known for his unwavering commitment to both his family and his passions throughout his distinguished life. The son of Arnold and Josephine (Havlik) Bauer. On August 22, 1959, in Cazenovia, WI he was united in marriage to Virginia Browning.

Donald dedicated over 30 years of his career to American Motors in Kenosha, where he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues through his hard work and dedication. He was a valued member of UAW Local 72. His passion for cars extended beyond his profession; he enjoyed repairing old cars and sharing stories of his many automotive adventures. He was a proud owner of a 1950 Mercury and a Charter Member of the Mid Century Mercury Car Club.

He was a man of varied interests, Donald was an enthusiastic outdoorsman, relishing every moment spent deer hunting and bird watching. One of his greatest joys was traveling across the United States in his RV with his beloved wife, Virginia. Their favorite trip was a remarkable journey to Alaska, a destination that held a special place in his heart. Donald cherished his time spent in Wellton, Arizona, as a haven for relaxation and enjoyment during the winter. Donald loved playing cards. He played Euchre with his buddies and Hand and Foot on couple's night. The man was thought of as a "Jack of all Trades" and was forever tinkering on something.

Donald leaves behind a loving family who will honor his memory and cherish the countless moments shared together. He is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia; daughters Lori (Joel) Jahnke and Donna (Donald) Potter; son Matthew (Pamela) Bauer; and grandchildren Rachel (Chris) Arendt, Danielle (Steve) Schumacher, Joel Jahnke Jr. (Angela Waranka), Diana Potter (Travis Schaefer), Kiley Bauer (Micah Goodman), and Logan Bauer (Iaana Ballman). He was also a proud great-grandfather to Lela, Will, Conlan, Tanner, Westin, Josie, Sawyer, Millie, and Ember. Further survived by sister-in-law Margaret Bauer.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Josephine Bauer, as well as his brothers Alfred, Raymond (Bessie), Leo, Robert (Charlotte), and Gerald Bauer, and sisters Adeline (William) O'Sullivan and Evelyn (Harold) Tennant.

As family and friends come together to celebrate Donald's life, they remember him not only for his accomplishments but also for the love he shared and the memories they created together. His spirit lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will be profoundly missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date please check our website for further updates. Haaselockwoodfhs.com. Memorials may be made to either the ALS Foundation https://www.als.org/ways-give or St Croix Hospice https://www.saintcroixhealth.org/about-us/giving/donations. The Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Twin Lakes, WI is honored to serve the Bauer Family.