Jeffrey Dean Bauman

Jeffrey Dean Bauman, 68, of Kerkhoven died Friday, April 10, 2026. His funeral service will be at 11:00 am, Saturday, April 18th at Living Hope Church in Willmar. Visitation will be 5-7:00 pm, Friday at the church and continue one hour prior to his service. Burial will be at a later date at Hillside Cemetery in Kerkhoven.  Jeff's service will be live-streamed at on the church's website ( https://livinghopechurch-mn.subspla.sh/nhtgnpk ) Arrangements are with Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar, www.hafh.org

Jeffrey Dean Bauman was born on April 1, 1958, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Lloyd and Patricia (Blomquist) Bauman. He was raised on the family farm south of Kerkhoven, where his father instilled in him a strong work ethic from a young age. Jeff was baptized at Bethel Baptist Church in Kerkhoven. He attended school in Kerkhoven and graduated in 1976. During his high school years, Jeff had a deep passion for sports and was actively involved in 4-H, where he especially enjoyed showing cattle.

Following graduation, Jeff continued his education at Willmar Vo-Tech, earning a degree in Agriculture. On September 11, 1982, he was united in marriage to Bobbie Olson at Living Hope in Willmar. The couple made their home north of the family farm, and in 1995, they took over the family farmstead. Jeff farmed alongside his father until Lloyd passed away in 1995. He later worked for two swine genetics companies and then Anez Consulting, where he dedicated over 10 years of service.

Jeff was a devoted member of Living Hope, where he served in many roles, including on the Elder Board, as a Sunday school teacher, a member of the prayer team, and part of the men’s quartet. He also proudly considered himself the unofficial greeter at church. In addition, he served as President of the Minnesota Pork Producers Association.

Family was at the heart of Jeff’s life. He cherished time spent with his children, and his grandchildren held a special place in his heart. He loved bringing them along to the barn or out on the tractor and side by side. He took great pride in supporting their activities, whether at sporting events or recitals. Jeff also had a generous spirit and was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Bobbie; children: Leah Bauman (Robbie Bajari) of New London, Joel Bauman of Albuquerque, NM; grandchildren: Titus, Tavian, Neko, Tiahna, Tryton, and Aya; bonus grandchildren: Ocean McDermott, Hudson and Brooke Bajari. He is also survived by siblings: Pam Jones, Karen (Steve) Rumsey and Roger (Doris) Bauman, sisters-in-law: Sue Baysden and Mary (Michael) Pufall; brother-in-law, Lee Johnson as well as many nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Adele Johnson, and other family and friends.

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