Bauer Jr., Albert Carl

Albert Carl Bauer, Jr., known affectionately as Al or even “Big Al”, passed away on June 21, 2024, in Rochester, NY, at the age of 65. Born on July 2, 1958, in Utica, NY, Al was a man whose life was marked by an unwavering spirit of adventure and a profound dedication to his community.

Al grew up attending St. Paul’s Elementary and graduated from Whitesboro High School. His journey through education took him to Le Moyne College, where he initially joined The Aquinas House with aspirations of becoming a priest. However, his passion for the culinary arts led him to a vibrant career in the restaurant industry. Al began his culinary journey working at “The Yah” in New Hartford during high school, where he met numerous world-renowned individuals. This experience ignited his lifelong love for the hospitality industry, eventually leading him to own two TCBY franchises in the Syracuse area. Al’s commitment to mentoring young adults was evident through his work, where he dedicated long hours to help them thrive and grow in the workforce. During his career, Al continued to serve the community through various roles in restaurants and most recently worked with Sodexo U.S. at Nazareth College.

Outside of his professional life Al was a voracious reader and an expert at puzzles especially Sudoku and crosswords. He was a master at trivia. He found solace and joy at his camp at Kayuta Lake in Forestport, which he referred to as his “happy place.” Al had a unique adoration for animals, especially dogs. He would always have doggy snacks wherever he was, just in case. The neighbor’s dogs at camp often just let themselves in thru the open door when they knew Al was in town. They would patiently wait by the refrigerator for treats. He missed his own pups, Ladybug and Buddy, but enjoyed daily walks with “The Boys” his friend, Melissa’s dogs.

Al was involved in high school with his CYO organization, acquiring lifelong friends, including the Hartman family, who were the youth group leaders.  He was persistent in trying new activities.  One example of this was trying to water ski. His first couple attempts left him sinking in the water. But through perseverance, he finally made it upright. He was willing to try pretty much anything; baseball, kayaking, handball, pickleball, golf, basketball, even football when a neighbor was coach for the high school and wanted his physique on the team. He enjoyed cards, Yahtzee, marbles, cornhole most recently with family and friends. Those were the most important people to him.

Described as honest, witty, and kind-hearted by those who knew him, Al had the unique ability to make everyone a lifelong friend. His generous spirit and lively personality left a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.  He was dedicated to his family and friends. He’d call to check up on everyone always. He enjoyed time with family and friends; be it parties, a night out with his nephew and brother-in-law or just relaxing at the end of the day with a glass of bourbon or gin with family, friends or neighbors. He was proud and honored to escort Sharon down the wedding aisle this past May. A truly special occasion where his whole family was together. 

Al is survived by his four sisters and their families: Marybeth (Brian) Swiderski – Dave & Casey; Sharon Bauer-Aldrich (Lance) – Heather Losee – Aryonna, Breyonna & Carlyonna; Melinda (Matthew) Abate – Gina (Alex) Shumski – Finnegan & Max, Courtney Abate & Adrian Abate; and Trish (Christopher) Adamkowski – Rachel, Alyssa & John. He also leaves behind his best friend and brother from another mother, John Lewek, sisters-in-laws Deborah Williams and Donna Plasschaert, as well as other members of the Plasschaert family. Al was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Sr. and Beatrice Bauer, and his beloved wife, Amy Bauer.

In keeping with Al’s lifelong commitment to helping others, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to his heart. Al’s legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched, and the memories cherished by all who knew him. https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app20020a?px=8435914&fr_id=154020&pg=personal&NONCE_TOKEN=0AF933729D13D8B910D1D906E8FC723B

Calling Hours Sunday June 30, 2024 1-3PM at the Richard H. Keenan Funeral Home (Egypt Location) 7501 Pittsford Palmyra Road, Fairport. Funeral Mass Monday July 1, 2024 9:30AM at Church of the Assumption 20 East Avenue, Fairport.