Wayne Gregory Bauer

Wayne G. Bauer, age 76, of Hastings, Minnesota, passed away on June 30, 2026, at Regions Hospital in St. Paul following complications from bladder cancer treatment.

Wayne was born on July 25, 1949, in Hastings, Minnesota, to Gregory and Isabelle (Ahrendt) Bauer. He was one of six children and grew up in Hastings, where he graduated from Hastings High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1967 and proudly served his country in Vietnam.

After returning home, Wayne began working at ConAgra, where he spent 37 years before retiring.

In 1974, Wayne met Christine "Chris" Crilly. They were married in 1976 and built their life together in Hastings. They welcomed their son, Mark, in 1980, and their son, Patrick, in 1983.

Wayne enjoyed golfing, playing guitar, listening to music, watching dog and horse racing, and never missed an episode of Gunsmoke. He also enjoyed watching baseball and football. More than anything, he loved spending time with his family. His grandchildren were the highlight of his life, and he was a proud and devoted grandpa.

Wayne was known for being easygoing, kind, and generous. He was someone who was always willing to help others and rarely asked for anything in return.

Wayne remained proud of his military service throughout his life. He was an active member of the Metro Marines for more than 20 years, served on the Thursday Rifle Squad at Fort Snelling National Cemetery, was a longtime member of the VFW Color Guard, and was also a member of the American Legion. Honoring fellow veterans was something that meant a great deal to him.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Chris; his sons, Mark Bauer and Patrick (Nicole) Bauer; his grandsons, Henry and Gregory Bauer; his step-grandson, Isaac Scott; his siblings, Judy (Carl) Anderson, Alice (Jon) Mostrom, and Albert Bauer; his sister-in-law, Alianna Bauer; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gregory and Isabelle Bauer; his sister, Kay Glaus; and his brother, Douglas Bauer.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street, Hastings, MN 55033.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, with visitation one hour prior to the service from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow the service.

Military honors will be held at Fort Snelling National Cemetery at a later date.