Peter F. Bayer

Born on June 16, 1932, Peter Bayer lived a long and meaningful life marked by love, hard work, dedication, and devotion to his family. He graduated from Washington Park High School, Class of 1950, and proudly served in the U.S. Army. On September 5, 1970, he married Susan M. Shepherd, and built a family together filled with love and cherished memories.

Peter worked at Vulcan Materials for 25 years, retiring in 1987. He later worked in real estate with N. Christensen and Son before establishing Bayer Realty Company, which he ran until 2014. A member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Peter was also deeply involved in athletics in the Racine area. He played semi-professional baseball, was a state handball champion, and infused his love of sports, particularly volleyball, into his children and the community. Through his involvement in athletics, he touched many lives and left a lasting impression as an athletic coach, official, and community sports developer.

Above all, Peter treasured his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who found his greatest joy in time spent with those he loved.

Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Susan; children, Megan Shapiro, Peter J. (Jane) Bayer, David (Colleen) Bayer, Lisa (Casey) Yunker, Jennifer (Kevin) Bazan; grandchildren Jay, Taylor, Annalise, Jack, Peter, Cole, Maxwell, Benjamin, Samantha, Henry, William, Catherine, Samuel, Susan, and Eleanor; and sister Mary Scheel. Along with many dear nieces and nephews he held close to his heart.

Peter’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and family. His greatest accomplishment was the family he built. He will be forever loved and dearly missed.

Private services with entombment at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery will be held.