odon, Indiana, Remembers Dallas Ray bauer, A Life Dedicated to Family and Community
Table of Contents
A pillar of the Odon, Indiana, community, Dallas Ray Bauer, 96, passed away peacefully on wednesday, December 3, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at deaconess memorial Medical Center in Jasper. His remarkable life, spanning nearly a century, was defined by hard work, a deep connection to the land, and a commitment to family.
Early Life and Career
Born on March 5, 1929, in Pennyville, Indiana, to John franklin and Nancy Elizabeth (Hedrick) Bauer, Dallas embodied the values of a bygone era. He dedicated his professional life to the skilled trades, working as a construction and heavy equipment operator for both Sam Oxley and later West Boggs Park. Beyond his formal employment, Dallas possessed a lifelong passion for farming, cultivating the land and nurturing Polled Hereford cattle. he proudly showcased his livestock at the state fair, a testament to his dedication and expertise.
Community Involvement and Personal Life
Dallas was an active member of the Odon Christian Church and the White River Valley Antique Association, demonstrating his commitment to both faith and local history. He married Vivian Marcile (Howard) Bauer on july 31, 1992, forging a loving partnership that enriched his later years. He was previously married to Norma Jean (Strawn) Bauer, who preceded him in death.
A Legacy of family
Dallas is survived by his wife, Marcile Bauer; son, Dennis Ray (Lorraine) Bauer of Loogootee; step-daughters, Teresa M. (Kim Hauber) Adams of Martinsville and Lisa Ann DeMotte of jacksonville, Florida; grandchildren, Timothy Ray (Andrea) Bauer, Brenda Jean (Aaron) Smith, John Robert (Tawana) Bauer, and William Dean (Lori) Bauer; step-grandchildren, Tyler Woodruff, Kinzie Raper, Tristin Lengacher, Josh Jones, and Justin Tulley; ten great-grandchildren; twelve step great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law, Larry Howard.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Norma Jean, sister Norma Gingerich, and brothers Arnold Bauer and Clyde Bauer.
Remembering Dallas
Funeral services honoring Dallas’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on saturday, December 6, 2025, at Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon, with micah Stephen and Richard Crabtree officiating. Following the service, Dallas will be laid to rest in Goodwill Cemetery in Loogootee.Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during calling hours from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on friday, December 5, and from 10:00 AM until the time of service on saturday at the funeral home.
The family requests that condolences and cherished memories be shared online at www.mengfuneralhome.com. Dallas Ray Bauer’s life serves as an enduring example of dedication,community spirit,and the importance of family.
