Jonathan “JD” Bauer, 78, of Micco, Florida made his journey home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025, at Kindred Hospital in Melbourne, Florida.

JD was born on August 8th, 1946, in Cañon City, Colorado to parents Jack and Bertie Bauer. He grew up in the small town of Westcliffe, Colorado where he developed a love for the Valley at an early age. From starting off as a young boy at Doc Hinshaw’s ranch to spending his childhood and teenage years raising cattle at the Armstrong ranch, JD was truly a cowboy at heart. He attended Custer County High school, where he was a band member, Boy Scout, and one of eighteen Bobcats who graduated in the Class of 1964. There he met many friends whom he still holds dear today. After graduation he moved to Denver to attend Denver Auto Tech and then in 1967 he made his journey to Florida where he enjoyed helping and being close to his Aunt and Uncle.

JD chose Florida to be his home, marrying his beloved wife and devoted partner Debbie of forty years and having his two girls, Brittany and Lindsay, who he loved and cherished. He was proud of his family. His hard work, values, and devotion to being a loving dad and husband created experiences and treasured memories that will last a lifetime.

At home he was known as Dad, but many people over the years came to know him as “Smitty.” In 1978, JD bought Smitty’s Welding Shop in Melbourne, Florida where he proudly remained as Owner and Operator serving his community for over 40 years until his retirement in 2018. During this time, he connected with many as a mentor, friend, and respected community member. He made long-lasting impacts and countless friendships along the way.

In retirement, JD enjoyed his longstanding membership to the Florida Flywheelers Antique Engine Club where many precious memories were created with family and friends attending the shows over the years. He also loved spending his summers in his hometown of Westcliffe, he loved sharing stories and making people laugh, and he was happiest when he was spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Giving back was something close to JD’s heart. As a young man he devoted time as a Volunteer Fireman at the Micco Fire Department and as a Boy Scout leader, he was also a longtime supporter of the Florida Sheriffs Association. JD dedicated his life to helping others, that’s just who he was. His giving spirit, selfless nature, kindness, and compassion was apparent to all that knew him.

He sure loved his family, his faith, and his community. He was certainly an extraordinary man who had this special ability to make everyone laugh, smile, and feel warm and welcomed.

JD is survived by his wife of forty years, Debrah Simes Bauer, of Micco. His girls Brittany (Shelden) Awtrey of Micco and Lindsay Bauer (Todd Hingle) of Vero Beach, his grandchildren Evelyn and Maverick Awtrey of Micco, many nieces and nephews, close friends and family, and his lifetime friend and brother Dennis Crow of Westcliffe, Colorado.

He was preceded in death by his Mother and Father Jack and Bertie Bauer, Father Ken Armstrong, Grandmother Jean Love Bauer, Uncle’s Cliff Warriner and Ed Warriner, Aunt’s Hazel Scuza and Ruth Chamlee, Brother Charles Bauer, In-laws Carroll and Geneva Simes, and many close loved ones.

His loving-spirit, one of a kind smile, and huge heart will be deeply missed by many. JD leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and memories that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Florida Sheriffs Association or Shiloh Tabernacle Church of Roseland.

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