Charles Edward Bauer of Elk Rapids, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, September 4, 2022, at French Manor on LaFranier from complications of a neurological disease. He was born to Herman and Dorothy (Blacklaw) Bauer on March 11, 1942, in Tullahoma, Tennessee.

Chuck was a member of the first graduating class of Henry Ford High School in 1960, and went on to complete a BA and MA at Michigan State University. Chuck worked as a teacher at East Lansing High School teaching a variety of courses in both the science and social studies departments. He also coached golf and tennis. After his retirement in 1998, along with remodeling their Elk Rapids home, he spent his time as a naturalist at the Grass River Natural Area and as a substitute teacher in the Elk Rapids school district.

Chuck was known for his gentle kindness, generosity, and unique sense of humor. His first activity of every day was to drink a cup of coffee and note his reflections in a journal. He was a collector of quotes; one of his favorites, which he attributed to his mother, was, "Be kind, the way is long and lonely."

He loved playing tennis, especially with his friend of many years Harold Garcia-Shelton and his son Max, biking, taking nature walks, birdwatching, and teaching. He enjoyed reading and watching movies, especially fantasy and science-fiction—some of his favorites being Star Wars and Star Trek. He was also a "wizard" at Harry Potter trivia.

Chuck is survived by his best friend and wife of 38 years, Lynn Bauer; two children who he was very proud of, Kirsten (Chris) Parin and Max (Caitlin) Bauer; and a granddaughter Charlotte Parin, who he always greeted with a kiss on the head. On September 7, 2022, his grandson Myles Bauer was born and we are sure that sometime during this three day span they were able to meet and Chuck was able to greet baby Myles in the same way.

Chuck is also survived by his sister Margaret (Bill) White of Kewadin; and high school sweetheart, friend, and former wife, Shirley Boone. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Chuck's family will be celebrating his life privately.

Those wishing to offer an expression of sympathy are encouraged to make a memorial contribution in Chuck's memory to the Grass River Natural Area, P.O. Box 231, Bellaire, MI 49615; or online at: https://www.grassriver.org/donate-now.html