JoAnn Bauer

Jo Ann Bauer, 78, of Corder, MO, was called home by her Heavenly Father on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Meyer Care Center in Higginsville, MO. JoAnn was born October 5, 1946 in Higginsville to Norman and Pearl (Ehlert) Lilleman. She was baptized in Christ as an infant and confirmed in her faith. After Pearl’s passing, Norman and Ruth (Crockett) were married in 1960. Ruth became a beloved second mother to JoAnn. JoAnn lived in Corder all her life and graduated from Corder High School in 1964. She married her high school sweetheart, Gary Bauer on October 9, 1965. Their unwavering love and support for each other endured for almost 60 years. JoAnn worked in various secretarial/administrative roles for Mattingly Brothers, Kansas City Life, and the Higginsville Habilitation Center. She worked at HHC for 41 years, the longest employee in the state of Missouri for the Dept. of Mental Health at that time. She was an active member of Zion Lutheran Church where she played the piano for services, sang in the choir, and was a member of the Dorcas Society. She was a bright light in the lives of all who knew her-fiercely loyal, endlessly loving, and full of fun and laughter. She lived her life with a passion for family and adventure. She was the kind of person who would never miss a birthday, game, dance recital, or family gathering, always showing up with open arms and a generous heart. She loved traveling and big family trips. A thrill seeker at heart, she never turned down a roller coaster ride with her grandkids or going down the tallest waterslide. Whether you knew her by JoAnn, Mimi, or Aunt Wheezy, she loved you dearly! She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to her Lord and family. She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Jennifer Bauer; one grandchild, Aaron Novotny; and step-mother, Ruth Lilleman. Surviving are husband, Gary Bauer of the home; one daughter, Stephanie (James) Schumaker of Warrensburg, MO; one brother, Don (Gail) Lilleman of Corder; six grandchildren, Andrew (Heather) Novotny, Jordan Novotny, Katie Schumaker (Stone Raaymakers), Lauryn Schumaker, and Caroline Schumaker (Seth Cupp). The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 27, 2025 at Zion Lutheran Church located at 500 N. Elizabeth St. Corder, Missouri. Interment will follow in Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Corder. Casket bearers: Cameron Lee, Darrin Lilleman, Kerrick Lilleman, Andrew Novotny, James Schumaker, Todd Squires. Memorials are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church or the Higginsville Habilitation Center - Parent's Association.

JoAnn Bauer

October 5, 1946 - June 20, 2025