James M. Bauer

James (Jim) Bauer, 87, of Storrs, passed away peacefully at home Friday, January 16, 2009. Jim was born in Niagara Falls, NY, Oct 17, 1921. James served in the 10th Mountain Division in World War II. He was wounded in the arm in Northern Italy and during his extensive rehabilitation he learned to play piano, which he practiced and enjoyed the rest of his life. His rehabilitation also inspired him to get Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Rehabilitative Education from Springfield College. He came to UConn in 1952 as an instructor and retired a full professor in 1980. He was President of the Connecticut Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association, and was a Physical Therapy Consultant to the Mansfield Public Health Nursing Association and Natchaug Nursing Home and Hospital. He also had a small private practice. Jim joined the Lions Club in 1952 and served as president in 1965-1966. Jim coached the UConn wrestling team, and enjoyed sports. He was an avid runner, tennis player and skier. He also was an amateur magician and delighted the young and the gullible with his tricks. Jim loved the outdoors. During UConn summer break and after retirement Jim and his family and friends enjoyed their cottage on Long Lake in the Adirondacks, usually staying as long as the weather allowed. After retirement, Jim and Betty made annual cross-country excursions to visit friend and family.He leaves his wife of 60 years, Elizabeth (Betty), a brother George and a sister Margaret, two sons, William and David, a predeceasing son Jamie, who with his wife Joyce gave them three granddaughters, Christina, Sarah and Rebecca, and great-grandchildren Bethany, Julia, Kyle and Jonathon. A grandson by marriage, Richard, gave them another great-grandchild, Ian. A celebration of Jim's life will be held Thursday, Jan 22, from 5 to 6:30 at the Storrs Congregational Church Parish House. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the Storrs Congregational Church. The Potter Funeral Home, Willimantic assisted with arrangements. Please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com for online memorial guest book.