Memorial Trees
G
Gerald Bayer
July 08, 2025
L
Lorraine Auvenshine
July 06, 2025
A
Anonymous
July 05, 2025
Memorial trees planted for:
James Marlyn Bayer
<p>James Marlyn Bayer, affectionately known as Jim to his friends and family, left this world on the 4th of July, 2025, at McLaren Greater Lansing, at the age of 77.</p><p><br></p><p>Born on April 26, 1948, in Minot, North Dakota, to proud parents Emil and Irene (Nelson) Bayer, Jim's life was one of joy, adventure, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones.</p><p><br></p><p>Jim's journey from North Dakota led him to the Michigan School for the Deaf, where he not only gained knowledge but also formed lifelong friendships. His education there set the stage for a successful career at General Motors, where he took on various roles, his most memorable being a forklift operator. Jim's commitment to his work was evident, as he faithfully served the company for 30 years before a well-deserved retirement.</p><p><br></p><p>In the spring of 2000, Jim's heart found its match in Cynthia Marie Smith with whom he met once when they were 16 at the school. Their marriage on March 25, 2000 was a celebration of love and the beginning of a beautifully blended family. Together, they nurtured a household filled with laughter, support, and shared passions. Jim is lovingly remembered by his wife, Cynthia Bayer; his daughters, Shannon (Karlen) Smith and Staci (Bill) Schachermeyer; grandsons, Rowan and Gavin Schachermeyer; and his granddaughters, Ariana and Tatiana Smith. His legacy continues through his stepchildren, Lucinda Terwilliger, and Samuel (Cassondra) Terwilliger, and his step-grandchildren, Richard Ladd, Nathan Eden, Zane Terwilliger, Mackenzie Gauthier, Olivia Hyatt, Sophia Adame, and Emma Adame, and his brother, Gerald Bayer. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Christopher Bayer, who welcomed him into eternal rest.</p><p><br></p><p>Jim's life was a portrait of adventure and spirited passion. He and Cynthia were inseparable as they traveled across all 50 states, basking in the beauty of the Bahamas and Jamaica. Cruises were a favored escape, with three voyages marking their memories. As avid Detroit Tigers fans, Jim and Cynthia planned their travels around the baseball season, their loyalty unwavering. Jim's enthusiasm for sports extended to cheering on Michigan teams and reveling in the excitement of car races.</p><p><br></p><p>Beyond the thrill of travel and sports, Jim found contentment in the simple pleasures of life. He was an accomplished bowler, a patient fisherman, and a competitive card player, with euchre being his game of choice. These activities were more than hobbies—they were avenues for Jim to connect with friends, share laughs, and create cherished moments.</p><p><br></p><p>His story does not end with his passing but lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable spirit.</p><p><br></p><p>The family is being served by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Laingsburg Chapel where online condolences may be shared at www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com</p>April 26, 1948 - July 4, 202504/26/194807/04/2025
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