Richard Leo Baer

Richard (Dick) Leo Baer, 84, of Wausau, Wisconsin, passed away on February 14, 2025, in his home surrounded by his family. 

Dick was born on September 18, 1940, in West Bend, WI, to the late Oscar and Helen Baer. Dick’s life was marked by his unwavering faith in Christ and his dedication & love for his family. Dick will be remembered by family and friends as a kind and loving husband, father and friend. He will be remembered by the community for his incredible singing voice and artistic talent.

As a young man, Dick pursued music, a thread that carried on through his life. He was known statewide as a youth for his promising voice and developed that talent gaining a Master’s Degree in Voice. He leveraged that talent by performing in choirs, musicals and operas throughout his life, both at a community level and a professional level. He also supported youths in developing their appreciation of music by taking the lead in community and local choirs. His family felt his love of music through the songs he would play and sing at the piano at home. 

Beyond his family and his music, Dick also enjoyed fishing and watching his sports teams. You could find him on the pier at his cottage trying for that next big fish or sitting down to watch a game. He was a fan of Wisconsin sports teams and most recently enjoyed the Badger basketball and women’s volleyball teams.

Dick is survived by his wife, Janice Baer; five children, Andrea (Dave Lois) Deau, Jonathan Baer, Jackie (Andy) Fewtrell, Noel (Laura) Boismenue, Laura (Derek Rogers) Boismenue; two siblings, Tom (Diana) Baer and Caroline (Jim) Braatz; 16 grandchildren; and 2 great-grandchildren. 

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, February 21, 2025, at Highland Community Church, 1005 N 28th Ave, Wausau, WI 54401. Visitation begins at 10:00 am and Memorial Service at 11:00 am with lunch served afterwards.

The Baer family asks that in lieu of flowers, any gifts are made as donations to Dick’s Church: Highland Community Church, 1005 N 28th Ave, Wausau, WI 54401.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting the Baer family. You may sign the family guestbook at www.ascendweston.org.