Alvin Bryan Baer, Jr.

Alvin Bryan Baer, Jr. made his exit on July 24, 2018 “National Tequila Day”. For those who knew and loved him, they will realize the ironic significance of this. Once again, he had the last laugh.

     Al was born June 27, 1923 in Atlanta, Kansas to Alvin Bryan Baer, Sr. and Ethel (Brock) Baer. They were life-long residents of Atlanta. On his passing he was 95. 

     After graduating from Atlanta High School, he worked with his father for a short period of time, before entering WWII, in February of 1943 where he was stationed in France and fought in Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland and Central Europe. He received the WW II Victory Ribbon, Good conduct Medal, American Theatre Ribbon, EAME Theater Ribbon, One Silver Service Star and a Purple Heart.

     Upon returning he continued working with his father at “Baer and Son Trucking,” until he obtained a position at Fruehauff, and then Truck Parts and Equipment in Wichita. He was their traveling salesman in Western Kansas, until his retirement. He was much beloved by all of his customers—he was a people person. During this period of time he was married to Elnora (Ellie Shultz) Baer of Oxford until her passing in 1996, they were married for nearly 50 years. 

     But this was not to be the end of his story. Instead it was the beginning of a new adventure. He was reunited with his high school sweetheart De Lora, upon which, he relocated to Texas, and they were wedded. They were married, until her passing earlier this year. It was a short, but rewarding time for the both of them. They lived life to the fullest, traveling and spending time with family. 

     He will be much missed. He was the jokester of the family and always the life of the party. We all have hilarious memories of his antics that will be passed down and shared for years to come.

     Those he left behind are: Perry, Barbara, Curtis and Shannon Markley of Alaska, Joyce and Danny Johnson, Jacqueline and Mark, all of California, Harold and Linda Brock of Rose Hill, Wanda and Lawrence of Florida, additionally numerous great, and great-great nieces and nephews.

     Graveside services will be held at Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Atlanta at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 3, with a reception to follow at the American Legion in Winfield - 115 W. 10th Ave. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established with DAV and contributions may be left in the care of the Shelley Family Funeral Home - 803 Loomis St. Winfield, KS 67156.

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