Gilbert BauersRacine - Gilbert Frederick Walter Bauers went to be with his Lord on March 6, 2008 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Gilbert was born on September 19, 1915 in Racine and lived his entire life here. He attended St. John's Lutheran grade school, Horlick High School and Moore's Business College. Gilbert worked at the State Motor Vehicle Department in Milwaukee until illness took over. He spent time convalescing in Lake Tomahawk. He married Jane Hahn who preceded him in death in 1961.Gilbert worked for over 40 years as credit manager for Veenstra Lumber and Supply, now Big Buck Lumber. He was known for his dry sense of humor and his terrible puns. Co-workers always looked forward to his 'lumber antics' never knowing what was coming next. He was active the Racine Credit Bureau, eventually serving as president for several years. He continued by serving on both the local and state levels.In 1962 Gilbert married Mildred Miller (nee Bartel). They had many wonderful years together and particularly enjoyed traveling the United States and cruising to various ports. Gil like to play host for friends at backyard pool parties, was an excellent chef on the grille and a well-known card shark. Gilbert was a member of St. John's Lutheran Church, Pentecost Lutheran Church and most recently Grace Lutheran Church. He served on several boards at Lutheran High School where he was affectionately known as 'Big Buck Gil'. He was also a member of the Horlick High 'Kit Club', the 55-Plus Club and Friends of Seniors. He participated in The Viking Cruise Line Club and other tour groups. Gil loved his wife, his children and his Lord. He was a kind and gentle man.Gilbert is survived and dearly missed. by Mildred, his wife of 45 years, children Jane (Jim) Culotta, John Bauers, Roger Miller, Marlyce (Jay) Christianson, Julie (David) Rhinehart, ten grandchildren and two great grandchildren. His brother, Bob Pieper, sisters Betty Puchter and Sylverta Bauers and infant children Joan and Mark William preceded him in death. Funeral services for Gil will be held at the funeral home on Monday, March 10, 2008 at 2 p.m. with Rev. Randal Poppe officiating. Private family interment will take place at Graceland Cemetery. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Monday afternoon from 12 noon until the time of services. Memorials to Racine Lutheran High School have been suggested.