Elmer “Buddy” Bayer, 1941-2014
Buddy was born in Bishop Ca. at Mrs. Bohn’s Maternity home to Lily & Elmer Bayer Sr. He spent the next 60 years living in Lee Vining.
After graduating from Lee Vining High School in 1960, Buddy joined the Merchant Marines, working on a Research Ship stationed in San Pedro Ca. He was a proud member of the U.S. Marines from 1964-1968. Buddy was member of the Drum and Bugle Corp., as he was a talented musician. After being honorably discharged from the military, he worked as a Construction worker on projects like Tioga Pass reconstruction, and the pipeline to the Mill Creek Power house.
In 1970 Buddy married Christine Hathaway in Lee Vining. He fathered 3 children, Henry, Jennifer and Edward. Also in the early 1970’s Buddy hired on with the State of Calif. Dept. of Transportation, now known as Caltrans. He worked in many capacities, retiring as a Supervisor after 35 plus years.
After retirement Buddy moved to Paso Robles to care for his father. When his father passed, Buddy remained in Paso Robles. Buddy’s love for his family, friends and the mountains brought him home to the Sierra for long visits.
Buddy was a member of the American Legion Mono Basin Post 672, holding many offices such as Chaplin and Commander, later transferring to Bishop Post 118.
Buddy was a devout Christian, baptized in the Presbyterian Church in Lee Vining. He had a strong Christian background and his faith never wavered. Buddy was a great guy who always had time and interest to help anybody through their hard times.
He is survived by his mother, Lily Mathieu, brother Robin Mathieu, and sister Bonita Noles, his 3 children, Elmer Bayer III of Enterprise Ala. Jennifer Bayer of Long Beach, and Ed Bayer of Bishop, nine grandchildren, and two nephews, as well as uncles Leroy Bayer and George La Braque and aunts Donna Erneta and Marie Wakeman.
Following his wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Hess Park in Lee Vining in the Spring in 2015. Please plan on attending to send Buddy on his next big adventure.
Buddy will be missed by all. Contributions in his name can be made to the Wounded Warriors Organization.
