Raymond Stuart Bauer Jr.

In Loving Memory of
Raymond Stuart “Stu” Bauer Jr.
October 1, 1946 – April 3, 2025

Raymond Stuart “Stu” Bauer Jr., 78, of Terre Haute, Indiana, passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of April 3, 2025. Born on October 1, 1946, to Raymond Stuart Bauer Sr. and Madonna Theresa Roby Bauer, he was the first of their nine children.

Stu graduated from Garfield High School in 1965. Following graduation, he joined the United States Navy and proudly served in the Vietnam War as part of Landing Ship Squadron Three. He was a Gunner’s Mate and an exceptional sharpshooter.

Upon returning home, he followed in his father's footsteps into car sales, beginning his career at Jack Thrasher Ford. Known for his charisma and integrity, he became a well-respected car salesman, working at several dealerships in Terre Haute. He served as the Used Car Sales Manager at Sycamore Chevrolet for 12 years. With a career spanning 40 years, he built a reputation for honesty and integrity. In 1995, he opened his own used car dealership, Stu Bauer’s Auto Exchange, in Brazil, Indiana. He retired in 2008.

Stu was known for his quick wit, infectious smile, and genuine love for people. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the countless returning customers he served over the years.

He is survived by his loving wife of forty years, JoJo; his daughter, Nicole McBride (Brian) of Plant City, Florida; and his stepdaughter, Jamie Kellett (Cliff Tam) of Las Vegas, Nevada. Other survivors include his grandchildren: Mercy Jones (Chip) of Palm Bay, Florida; Brayton McBride (Megan) of Charlotte, North Carolina; and Brinson McBride (Jessica) of St. Petersburg, Florida; as well as his great-grandchildren, Caden McBride and Nathaniel McBride.

He is also survived by his siblings: Melody Aitken (Jeff), Jan Bauer (Renee), DeeDee Harruff (Rick), Reed Bauer (Patty), Lora Morris (Mike), Lisa Linder (Michael), and Tracy Jones (Keith), all of Terre Haute, Indiana, as well as many nieces, nephews, and chosen family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his younger brother, Brian Bauer; his grandson, Bryce Nathaniel McBride; his niece, Lacey Linder; and his great-nephew, Caden Delaunois.

Stu’s legacy of kindness, humor, and integrity will live on in all who knew and loved him. 

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