January 5, 1954 - November 7, 2021
James Edward Baer, 67 years old, of Salmon Arm, BC went to be with his Lord on the evening of Nov. 7, 2021. He peacefully passed through the "valley of the shadow" at home. His battle with Parkinson's is over and he has received his Crown of Life. James was born Jan. 6, 1954, fourth son to Mervin & Fannie Baer, along with his identical twin brother John.
He is survived by his loving wife of 47 yrs. Judy (Amendt) Baer and his 7 children. Hannah (Adam) Martin, Ghent NY. Jordan (Heidi) Baer, Castlegar BC. Mervin (Christa) Baer, Fanling Hong Kong. Heather (Marlin) Maldaner, Rolling Hills AB. Bethany (Jeremy) Reimer, Salmon Arm BC. Carson (Laurie) Baer, Salmon Arm BC. Sophia (Darren) Torkelson, Tilley AB. Thirty-three grandchildren. Four sisters and four brothers.
He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant sister, a brother Leon Baer, a sister Jean Rohrer, two brother-in-laws, Marlin Zimmerman and Jesse Peachy, and a grandson Jeffery Maldaner.
Dad was born in Carlisle, PA and lived there with his parents till he was 8 years old. Then they moved to McBride BC, where at 15, he gave his heart to the Lord, was baptized and joined the McBride Mennonite Church. He met Judith Amendt at Danskin, BC and on Oct. 26, 1974 they joined hearts and hands for life.
He was diagnosed with Parkinson's when he was 50. Thus began a difficult 17-year journey for Dad and Mom and those who helped care for him. Through the many ups and downs of his illness, we found God's grace sufficient. Over the last few years his main desire was to go home to be with Jesus and to be released from his earthly body of suffering. His voice in his family and in the world will be sorely missed. His positive outlook, words of encouragement, and intense love of the Word and the Lord are things we, his children, carry with us and praise the Lord for.
Dad's love for the Lord and his love for people provided him many opportunities for service. He had a keen interest in missions in the Philippines and China. His gift of writing blessed many people across the world. "Beside the Still Waters" devotionals and working with CAMs Billboard Evangelism team consumed many of his hours before Parkinson's ravaged his mind.
We thank family and friends for your prayers and support through Dad's suffering. A special thanks to Dr. A. Heunis for your commitment and understanding to Dad's care through his mental illness. We also thank Bowers Funeral Service for your compassionate involvement.
"Even so Father, for so it seemed good in Thy sight"
Online condolences may be sent to James' family through his obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com