Jonathan “JD” Bauer, 78, of Micco, Florida, made his journey home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 6, at Kindred Hospital in Melbourne, Florida.
JD was born on August 8, 1946, in Cañon City, Colorado, to parents Jack and Bertie Bauer. He grew up in the small town of Westcliffe, Colorado, where he developed a love for the Valley at an early age. From starting off as a young boy at Doc Hinshaw’s ranch to spending his childhood and teenage years raising cattle at the Armstrong ranch, JD was truly a cowboy at heart. He attended Custer County High school, where he was a band member, Boy Scout, and one of eighteen Bobcats who graduated in the Class of 1964. There, he met many friends whom he held dear to the end. After graduation, he moved to Denver to attend Denver Auto Tech, and then in 1967, he made his journey to Florida, where he enjoyed helping and being close to his Aunt and Uncle.
JD chose Florida to be his home, marrying his beloved wife and devoted partner, Debbie, of forty years, and having his two daughters, Brittany and Lindsay, whom he loved and cherished. He was proud of his family. His hard work, values, and devotion to being a loving dad and husband created experiences and treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
At home, he was known as Dad, but many people over the years came to know him as “Smitty.” In 1978, JD purchased Smitty’s Welding Shop in Melbourne, Florida, where he proudly remained as Owner and Operator, serving his community for over 40 years until his retirement in 2018. During this time, he connected with many as a mentor, friend, and respected community member. He made long-lasting impacts and countless friendships along the way.
In retirement, JD enjoyed his longstanding membership to the Florida Flywheelers Antique Engine Club, where many precious memories were created with family and friends attending the shows over the years. He also loved spending his summers in his hometown of Westcliffe, where he enjoyed sharing stories and making people laugh. He was happiest when spending time with his family and grandchildren.
Giving back was something close to JD’s heart. As a young man, he devoted time as a volunteer firefighter at the Micco Fire Department. As a Boy Scout leader, he was also a longtime supporter of the Florida Sheriffs Association. JD dedicated his life to helping others; that’s just who he was. His giving spirit, selfless nature, kindness, and compassion were apparent to all who knew him.
He sure loved his family, his faith, and his community. He was undoubtedly an extraordinary man who had this special ability to make everyone laugh, smile, and feel warm and welcomed.
JD is survived by his wife of forty years, Debrah Simes Bauer, of Micco. His girls Brittany (Shelden) Awtrey of Micco and Lindsay Bauer (Todd Hingle) of Vero Beach; his grandchildren Evelyn and Maverick Awtrey of Micco; many nieces and nephews, close friends and family, and his lifetime friend and brother Dennis Crow of Westcliffe, Colorado.
He was preceded in death by his Mother and Father, Jack and Bertie Bauer; Father Ken Armstrong; grandmother Jean Love Bauer; uncles Cliff Warriner and Ed Warriner; aunts Hazel Scuza and Ruth Chamlee; brother Charles Bauer; in-laws Carroll and Geneva Simes; and many close loved ones.
His loving-spirit, one of a kind smile, and huge heart will be deeply missed by many. JD leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
A memorial service to celebrate and honor JD’s life will be held at Wesley Church, located at 2075 Meadowlane Ave in West Melbourne, on Saturday, September 27, at 2 p.m. A reception will follow at their Fellowship Hall immediately after the service. Please direct any questions to his daughters at 321-258-1742 or 772-633-5733
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Florida Sheriffs Association or Shiloh Tabernacle Church of Roseland.
