Maestro Hans Bauer
November 29, 1935 – February 10, 2023
“He raised three children. He’d done his best!”
Our love for animals and the beauty of life, we owe to one very special and eclectic man, our father, our Papi, our Opa(pa). We sadly lost him at the ripe age of 87. He led a long and very passionate life, and loved nothing more than sharing his fanatical hobbies, interests, and obsessions with his children (from his 2nd marriage to Sharon); Carla Maria Teresa (Joel), Maja Paola Elizabeth (Bill), and Franz Ferdinand (Jen), and his six grandchildren; Torsten, Timo, Mason, Jack, Weston, and Milla. We owe our love for classical music, orchids, horses, dogs, cats, saltwater aquariums, arts, and sciences to him. While it was not always easy for his family to navigate the challenges that were thrust upon us with his dementia diagnosis, we were blessed that he could leave this beautiful world on his own terms, knowing who his children were and that they were in his presence to support his very peaceful passing.
Our father was pre-deceased by his parents, six siblings, and 1st wife (Luba). He leaves behind a large family in Europe. He remained spiritually connected with his nieces (Hertha, Erna, Regina, Ilona, and Jolantha) and nephews (Matthias and Johannes), and their many children.
To his students he was known as Mr. Bauer, the Austrian immigrant, accomplished violinist, and world-renowned conductor. He accumulated a long and impressive CV that included time spent studying at the Juilliard School of Music in NY, appearances as guest conductor for the Royal Philharmonic in London, among many others, and was recipient of prestigious awards, including the Harrogate Violin Competition in England at the age of 13. He passed on his musical prowess through his passion for teaching over the years both privately, and within the Musical Faculties of Wilfrid Laurier University, Conrad Grebel University College, and Western University.
There are many to thank for his exceptional care over the last several years. Our family’s heartfelt gratitude is extended to the outstanding teams at Highview Residences London, and Richmond Woods Retirement Living. We always appreciated knowing our father shared his witty sense of humor with all who were graced with his presence during this stage of his life.
In Keeping with our Papi’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to Cremation & Celebrations, Arva (London) (519-963-4003). In lieu of a visitation, which our Papi would never agree to, our family is kindly asking, if possible, to join us in providing a donation to the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, in his memory, to add much needed support for families navigating dementia with a loved one.
We will all miss our very special ‘stubborn Austrian’!
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Denise Wexler says
I was very sorry to read about your fathers death. We knew your Dad years ago when he lived in Guelph. Your Dad and his first wife were good friends of my in-laws and Luba was my husband’s music teacher at one time. Your Dad seems to have left you with many gifts which should help you deal with your loss.
Marta & Jason says
Sending our love and heartfelt condolences to Maja, Bill, Mason, Jack, to Carla and Family, and to Franz and Family. Hanz was an exceptional man as we know and we will always remember him so fondly, especially from Maja and Bill’s wedding. We remember him as a quiet and classy man, intelligent with a witty sense of humour, well spoken, interesting and full of insight and wisdom even in just a few words, charming yet unassuming, honest, very proud of his children and family, and an unapologetically proud Austrian and European! He had a cute smile – more like a shy little smirk I specifically recall, and I have seen that same expression in his grandsons, Mason and Jack. I know the level of love, care and dedication that my friend Maja and her family in particular devoted to their beloved father and Opa, and so I hope that they may all find comfort and peace in knowing that he undoubtedly knew just how deeply he was loved, respected and appreciated by his beautiful family. May he rest in heavenly peace knowing how much he is loved and the beautiful way in which his children and family have honoured and celebrated his life and legacy. God bless. Love, Jason, Marta and Family
Sharon Heller says
My 3 precious treasures, There was never a doubt as to the love your Papi had for each of you. It was unique to you individually, as was his relations to many in his life. His influence to his students was bar none, unique, yet extraordinary to each of them. He whole heartedly delved into the many interests in his life and was always eager to share those with anyone who wished to discover. I loved that I was able and still hold fond memories and learn of traditions from his family in Europe. He may be gone from you physically, but his inquisitive nature is instilled in each of you, sciences, engineering, architecture, arts, languages, animals, and the list goes on! Carpe Diem! Love Mom❤️❤️❤️
Hana Farhang says
Sending my deepest condolences and prayers to Carla, Maja, Franz and the entire family. Your Dad was an accomplished man and had a wonderful life. I met your Dad when Carla and I went to university together. Carla can tell you how he help (and torn apart 😂) my medical school essay! It worked in my favour needless to say ☺️ I’m glad I had the opportunity to meet him and learn from him. Thinking about you 💕
Hana
Erna Appelt says
Liebe Carla, liebe Maja, lieber Franz,
anläßlich des Todes Eures Vaters möchte ich Euch mein aufrichtiges Beileid aussprechen!
Euer Vater war ja der jüngste von den sieben Bauer-Geschwistern und unsere Mutter die älteste. Der Altersunterschied zwischen unserer Mutter und Eurem Vater betrug 18 Jahre!
Euer Vater war der Liebling von all seinen Geschwistern, und unsere Mutter hat uns so oft erzählt, wie schön er Geige gespielt hat. Als Kind habe ich ihn immer wieder Geige spielen gehört. Das hat mich so beeindruckt und auch so stark geprägt, dass ich bis heute fast jeden Tag Geige spiele, und auch immer wieder mit anderen zusammen Kammermusik mache.
Daß Euer Vater, unser Onkel Hans nun gestorben ist, hat mich sehr betroffen gemacht. Aber für Euch und Eure Familien, ist es ungleich schwerer, den Verlust Eures Vaters zu verkraften.
Ich bin mit meinen Gedanken bei Euch und wünsche Euch viel Kraft in dieser schwierigen Zeit.
Liebe Grüße, Erna (Wien)
Jeff and Laura Moisan says
Sending our love and condolences to Carla, Maja, Franz, and your whole family. Your papi accomplished so much in his life. It really is incredible. His biggest accomplishment in my eyes was his inspiration, guidance, love and care that he passed down to you, and his influence that has made you the amazing parents and people you are. We’re thinking of you during these difficult times. Love Jeff and Laura.
Paul Schneider & Family says
Dear Maja and Bill, we are saddened to hear of the loss of your dearest Papi. He was an amazing man who will be missed by all who had the pleasure to meet him. He was a true renaissance man with many gifts. May he rest in peace. All our love, the Schneiders.
Gigi K. says
Thank you for sharing such a beautiful tribute, and for giving us a glimpse of the kind of person he was the fulfilling life he lead. My deepest condolences to all that are grieving his loss 💐. May he rest in peace 🤍.
Kathy Parker says
Our sincere condolences to Franz and his family for the loss of your father. He was quite an accomplished man in his career and interests, but his greatest accomplishment is obviously his children. Our thoughts are with you all at this sad time.
Harold and Kathy Parker
Megan Chadwick says
Maja,
Thinking of you and your family during this very difficult time. Sending you hugs.
Megan
Kathryn Nevins says
Sending our love and condolences to Carla, Maja, Franz and family. It is heart warming to read his legacy and accomplishments, he will be deeply missed.
Richmond Woods says
On behalf of the residents and staff of Richmond Woods Retirement Residence we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences on the loss of Hans. May you take comfort in the memories of love shared and find peace now, and in the days ahead.