Obituary of Richard Donald Bayer

Richard Donald Bayer was born on July 8, 1957 in Monroe. He was one of ten children born from the union of his parents: the late John Bayer, Sr. and the late Gertrude Gotha. He began his life under the guidance of his foster parents, Lewis and Barbara Skeel. He started his childhood education with Charlevoix Public Schools, later graduating from Jefferson High School, Monroe, Michigan.  

Richard has always been a very hard worker and was employed by downtown Monroe Big Boy as a cook, co-owned by George Darany and Fred and Jackie Corser. He most recently was employed by DTE as an Edison contractor for DMS for 27 years.  

In his younger years, he enjoyed playing football and his love for sports never ceased as he always looked forward to watching them on tv. Richard was very mechanically inclined and especially loved doing body work with his brother Chuck on their 1972 Plymouth Duster.

He loved going camping and being outdoors. His favorite place to visit was Fisherman’s Island State Park in Charlevoix, Michigan, making many trips up North with friends and family.

Richard was a very kind and generous man. His caring nature and kind soul will be missed by everyone who knew him. 

Richard Donald Bayer, age 61, of Monroe, passed away on Sunday, October 7, 2018 at 5:32am at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan surrounded by his family. His passing is preceded by his brothers: Carl Sowders, Charles Bayer and most recently Anthony “Tony” Bayer; his sister: Susan Bayer and his parents: John Sr. and Gertrude Bayer.

To cherish his memory, he leaves his brothers: John Jr. (the late Irene) Bayer, Bill (Rosa) Bayer, Robert (Janene) Bayer and Gary (the late Donna) Bayer; his sister: Patty Bayer; his nieces and nephews: Christopher, Ryan, Destiny, Sarina, Susan, Jim (Clarissa), Michelle (Craig), Jerry, Jenna and Jeff and many extended family members and friends.

Friends may gather on Friday, October 12, 2018 from 1:00 until a Celebration of His Life starting at 4:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734)384-5185. The service will be officiated by Pastor Eric Cook from Bridge of Hope Full Gospel Church of Monroe.

Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration, share a photo or send a floral arrangement by visiting our website at www.merklefs.com.