Robert Baer

Robert Paul Baer, affectionately known as Bob, Brother Bob, and Uncle Bob, passed away on April 24, 2025, in his 57th year. Born in Burlingame, California, on November 24, 1967, Bob was remembered by all who knew him as a sensitive and caring soul with a truly golden heart.

Though a man of few words, Bob's actions resonated deeply. He possessed a rare capacity for selfless generosity, the kind of friend who would readily offer his own shirt to someone in need. His compassion extended beyond people to all living creatures, great and small.

Bob's formative years included his time at Bret Harte High School nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and his graduation from the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen, Texas. He pursued his passion for knowledge at Southwest Texas University, where he earned a degree in Anthropology, later complementing this with an MBA.

In his 20s and 30s, Bob dedicated himself to public service in Palestine, Texas, first as a police officer and later with Child Protective Services. Following years of honorable service in the US Army in Korea, Afghanistan, and Ft. Hood, he transitioned to a civilian career as a calibrator at the Department of Defense in McAlester, Oklahoma.

Beyond his professional life, Bob deeply valued his family and the adventures they shared. He cherished traveling the globe. His childhood was filled with outdoor pursuits, including skiing, camping, and fishing. In his teens and early adulthood, Bob excelled in boxing, archery, and sharpshooting. He was a lifelong learner as evidenced by his eclectic library filled with well-read books. Bob also found joy in cooking, and spent many years perfecting his Texas chili recipe. Bob held a profound affection for animals. This love continued throughout his life, with Bob consistently providing a loving home to rescued furry companions.

Bob held a deep and quiet affection for his family and his circle of friends. He will be profoundly missed by his father, two sisters, cherished nephew and nieces, aunt and uncles, two first cousins, and his many beloved extended family members and friends. Bob was especially close to his mother who passed away from COVID in 2020. He maintained close and caring friendships with both of his ex-wives, who remained dear to him.

Bob will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched, and his enduring generosity and quiet kindness will continue to resonate with those who knew him. He will be cremated and laid to rest at the family cemetery in DeRidder, LA. A private family gathering to celebrate Bob's life will be held at a later date.