David "Chief" Allen Bauer

David A. "Chief" Bauer, 72, of Crestline, passed away on Friday, July 9, 2021 at Avita Galion Community Hospital.

David was born in Crestline on November 22, 1948 to the late Floyd "Bud" and Priscilla (McCaffrey) Bauer. On June 29, 1991, David married the former Karen Hardin, and she survives in Crestline.

David was a 1967 graduate of Crestline High School. After high school, David served his Country honorably in the United States Navy and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. He earned the Vietnam Service Metal W/1 Bronze Star, a Combat Action Ribbon, and the National Defense Service Metal.

After his Navy career, where David was introduced to fire training, he took the Civil Service Exam. He was hired by the Crestline Fire Department on Jan. 5, 1974 and became the youngest Fire Chief in the State of Ohio on June 6, 1976 at the age of 27. "Chief" retired on Jan. 5, 2005 after 31 years of fire service.

Chief was a member of both the Crestline VFW Post 2920 and Eagles Aerie 859. He enjoyed golfing and watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. One of Chief's greatest enjoyments in life was the company of his many Crestline friends.

In addition to his wife Karen, David is survived by his children, J.P. (Karen) Wyer and Tim (Michelle Wagner) Wyer both of Crestline; grandchildren, Ethan, Deacon, Logan, Carter, and Kaelynn; sister, Kathy (Steve) Kirchbaum of Crestline.

In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his siblings Chris Bauer and Bob Schwam.

A Celebration of Life to honor Chief will be held on Sunday, July 25. 2021 at 1:00 PM in the VFW Post #2920, 100 South Crestline St., Crestline.

Memorial contributions in Chief's memory may be made the American Red Cross in care of the Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home.

Those wishing to share a memory of David or send condolences to the Bauer family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.

The Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 223 W. Main Street, Crestline is honored to serve the family of David A. "Chief" Bauer.

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