Obituary for David Baur

Major David H. Baur, Sr., USAF Ret.

August 13, 1930 – September 20, 2018

Major David H. Baur, Sr., USAF Ret., died on Thursday, September 20, 2018 at the age of 88 at his home in Ponca City, OK with the love of his life for 65 years by his side, Frances Alice Baur.

He was born in Brooklyn, New York to Herman Baur and Eleonora Bruckner. David was an only child who filled his days with reading history, travel and adventure books and exploring the outdoors. After graduating high school, he attended the University of Illinois, but left to enlist in the United States Air Force. While stationed in Denver, CO, David met his beloved wife and they were married in 1954. He was accepted into officers training and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant. He completed pilot training and then helicopter rescue training. David retired as a Major having received many honors for flying, leadership and heroism during his career which included his tour in Vietnam. His sons and grandsons especially enjoyed hearing the stories he shared about his adventures.

An outgoing person, David loved to meet people. He worked in the public sector by building homes, selling cars, managing lumber yards, and running a TV station. He was generous with his time and enjoyed serving others as the commander of the American Legion, a lector at St. Mary’s and St. Bridgette’s Catholic Churches, the Knights of Columbus, and the Elks Lodge. His favorite scripture was 1 Corinthians 13 and he could be known to burst into a rousing round of the “Amen” chorus! David’s heart was full because of his children and their families. He often stopped in the middle of conversations and shared how blessed of God he and Fran were to have this large and amazing family.

David was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Frances, of the home; his children: Theresa Kitchens Lane, David H. Baur, Jr. and wife Carol, Victoria Clemons and husband Richard, Paul B. Baur, Elizabeth Martinez and husband Mark, Daniel S. Baur and wife Shannon, and Suzanne Baur; 20 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; 2 cousins and a nephew.

A Mass of Christian Burial will he held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ponca City on Friday, September 28, 2018 at 10:00 am. A rosary wake service will be held on Thursday evening, September 27, 2018 at 6:30 p.m. at the Trout Funeral Home Chapel. Major David H. Baur, Sr., USAF Ret. will be laid to rest at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio, Texas on Friday, October 5, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. with full military honors. Arrangements are under the direction of Trout Funeral Home & Crematory in Ponca City.

Source: Trout Funeral Home