Robert D. “Jake” Baer’s 92-Year Journey of Service and Family: Reunited with Beloved Wife Joanne

Robert D. "Jake" Baer was a man defined by his commitment to his work, his country, and his community.

September 25, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 25, 2026

Robert D. “Jake” Baer, a proud United States Army veteran, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on Wednesday, September 24, 2026.

He had been married to Joanne Baer, and they had four children: Bob, Jayme, Rhonda Kay, and Bobby Joe Baer.

Robert D. “Jake” Baer was a proud United States Army veteran. (Source: Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home)

Jake was a standout athlete who played high school basketball, leading Van Wert County in scoring in 1951.

He was a dedicated carpenter at Tuttle Construction in Lima for over 30 years. He earned a reputation as a loyal craftsman, and his commitment to quality proved his character.

Before embarking on his long career in construction, he was a United States Army veteran, serving the country during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955.

He was a member of the Van Wert American Legion, and his military service remained an essential part of his identity.

The values of dedication and loyalty he learned in the Army stayed with him throughout his entire life. His legacy is one of quiet strength and reliability.

Robert D. “Jake” Baer’s Family Members Mourn the Tragic Loss

Robert D. “Jake” Baer, the son of Glenn and Annetta Upp, was born on January 21, 1933, in Van Wert, Ohio. He was a pillar in the lives of those who knew him.

Sadly, he passed away at the age of 92 on September 24, 2026.

Jake was a man of simple pleasures and steadfast character.

He was a dedicated father and grandfather, and his greatest joy was found in cheering on his children and grandchildren at their various athletic events and activities.

He was a familiar face at local gatherings and cherished quiet moments, especially enjoying breakfast at The Orchard Tree restaurant.

Jake’s children, Bob Baer and Jayme Bohyer; beloved grandchildren, Blake and Karly Bohyer; brothers, Donald “Murph” Baer and Charles Baer; sister, NaDonna Schumm; and special companion, Donna Smith, survive him.

On the other hand, his parents, Glenn and Annetta Baer; wife, Joanne E. Baer; daughter, Rhonda Kay Baer; son, Bobby Joe Baer; brothers, Walter E. “Bud” Baer and Carl D. Baer; sisters, Juanita Black, Betty Wyandt, Bonnie Speelman, Jeanette Smith, Anna Kathryn Rase, and Glendora Baer; a half-sister, Vera Nortley; survive him.

Likewise, Jake is also preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Linda Baer, and brothers-in-law, Ralph Schumm, Earl Speelman, and Milo Wyandt.

Robert D. “Jake” Baer and Joanne Baer married on April 28, 1956, and built a loving family together with their four children. at Van Wert County Hospital in 2005, after 20 years of service.

Sadly, Joanne passed away at 12:10 p.m. Tuesday, January 3, 2006, at St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, Ohio.

The Baer family will hold a funeral service for Jake at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1, 2026, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.

Burial will immediately follow in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point, where the Van Wert American Legion and VFW Honor Guard will conduct military graveside rites.

Moreover, visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at noon on Wednesday at the funeral home.

In place of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be directed to the Van Wert County Humane Society.

Rest in Peace, Robert D. “Jake” Baer.

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Ashish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.

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