John David Bauer, 92, of Salyersville, Ky, previously of Chelsea, MI, entered his heavenly home on Sunday January 25th, 2026, in Prestonsburg, KY. He was born May 8th, 1933, to the late Earl and Cory Bauer.
John lived a life full of love, cooking, and many walks and jogs. He was a strong-willed, dedicated individual who enjoyed life and exercise, even at the age of 92 years old. John was raised in Chelsea, Michigan, where he started his career as a banquet chef. Not only did he love what he did, but he was the very best. He worked at Weber’s and The Elk’s Club for a large portion of his life and talked fondly of his memories there. John was also an avid runner. He enjoyed running, lifting weights, and boxing. John ran many marathons, including the Boston Marathon. He found joy and pride in taking care of himself. Later, after his career as a chef, John coached track and field. He coached many kids, as he called them, and enjoyed seeing them succeed. John later moved to Salyersville, KY, where he spent the rest of his years making many memories and enjoying every day with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and daughter. He was often seen, rain, snow, or shine, walking the Dawkin’s Trail in Royalton, KY. While he loved exercising, he grew to love being spoiled by his great-grandchildren and special granddaughter, Amy Fletcher, with many chocolate bars and banana splits, his favorite. He will be greatly missed, but his memory will be carried with those who loved him forever.
John is survived by one daughter, Cathy (Donald) McCarty, and one son, Randy Bauer; three grandchildren, Amy (Tim) Fletcher, Heather McCarty, and Chris McCarty; three great-grandchildren, Alyssa (Nicholas) Roark, Emily McCarty, and Kennady Fletcher; one brother, Ken Bauer; his favorite neighbor, Wanda Gamble; and a special doctor, Dr. Scott Arnett, whom he admired and respected.
In addition to his parents, John is preceded in death by many brothers and sisters.
A private memorial will be held by his family at a later date.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Magoffin County Funeral Home.
www.magoffincountyfuneralhome.com
