William Michael Bauer

A one-of-a-kind man, strong, loving and caring, our Michael died Feb. 1 of complications following surgery. He lived life with gusto and a positive attitude on achieving dreams that was contagious. He held us all close in his tight circle of love.

In his 58 years, Michael touched many hearts. He was our sounding board, a natural storyteller and giver of bear hugs. He never met a stranger; always had a smile and a story to tell. His eclectic interests ranged from books, gardens, music to animals; an avid reader, with extensive knowledge that few could keep up with, he kept us learning and growing. A classic jack-of-all-trades, we couldn’t match his determination and work ethic. Michael was the one to call for help/advice, to listen intently or offer a word of encouragement. It’s comforting to know that he's in heaven enjoying unlimited access to music, books, movies and the Internet.

Born 3/24/1952 in San Diego, CA, Michael lived in the Seattle area most of his life and briefly in Hawaii and California. A proud Eagle Scout, he graduated from Nathan Hale and the UW. His varied work career in retail and apartment management left a lasting mark on co-workers and customers. From an early age, he loved the outdoors. Michael recently was able to take early retirement to fulfill his lifelong dream to live close to nature and the mountains and he so loved his “paradise on earth,” the Swede Heaven “ranch.”

He leaves behind his mother and father, Mary and Bill Bauer, his life partner, Jeaneen Chapman, stepdaughters Erin Kansala, Maureen (Alan) Arnesen, grandchildren, Emily and Matthew, siblings Lynn (Bob) Wilmot, Sheila, Suzy (Chris) Dalgarn, Mark, nieces Breana and Maddy, nephews Dan, Matt, Josh, Kevin and Zach, cousins John (Carol) Bauer, Linda, Lisa, Debbie (Eddie) Jensen, Diana (Leroy) Hooker and Gregg Hardin. He is also survived by grand niece and nephew, Vivien and Grady as well as many extended family members and hundreds of friends. He will be sorely missed by his faithful, devoted four-legged companion, Angel.

Michael will be missed more than words can ever say. Stories abound of his lasting effect on others. It’s our profound hope that our precious memories of his life will begin to fill the massive holes in our hearts.

All those who loved Michael are invited to join in a celebration of his life at First Presbyterian Church Bellevue (1717 Bellevue Way NE, Bellevue, WA 98004) on Sunday, February 13, 2011 at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flower please make donations to the Tree House (http://www.treehouseforkids.org/) or to Seattle King County Humane Society and/or bring bags/cans of pet food to the memorial service (donated to the local food bank).

Arrangements under the direction of Acacia Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Seattle, Washington.