Richard K. Bauer, 75, of Wheaton, Illinois, retired deputy director for DuPage Public Safety Communications and a key figure in the Illinois APCO Chapter, passed away July 30.
Bauer’s keen interest in radio communication guided many of his life’s passions and his professional life. Early in his career, Bauer hosted a radio show and parlayed that job into work for DuPage Public Safety Communications or DU-COMM, where he managed 9-1-1 emergency communications. He pioneered emergency communications development and was instrumental in saving countless lives by swiftly dispatching lifesaving resources.
Bauer first joined APCO International in 1984 and was a member for 42 years. He served as the long-time Illinois Chapter treasurer. He was instrumental in forming the Illinois Public Safety Telecommunications Association (IPTSA), a nonprofit organization comprised of APCO and NENA and created to handle tax implications of the annual conference. He created the chapter’s first websites and was an Illinois Chapter Life Member. His contributions built strong foundations for today’s Illinois Chapter and the IPSTA.
Bauer is survived by his wife of 56 years, Donna, and his sister, Susan Bauer. Memorial gifts may be directed to the Salvation Army. Bauer’s complete obituary and a video commemorating his life can be found here.
