John “Johnny” Martin Baier

John “Johnny” M. Baier, 69, lifelong resident of Shawnee passed away Thursday, September 6, 2012, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Johnny was born April 2, 1943, to John and Edith Baier in Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School in 1961.

Johnny was a member of the United Association and Sprinkler Fitter's Local Union 314 for 39 years. He started with his father as an apprentice for the Rock Island Railroad but soon found his calling to the Fire Sprinkler Industry in 1963. He retired in 2002 after 32 years of service. Johnny was an avid fisherman, hunter, and outdoorsman. He always looked forward to his annual fishing trip to Canada with his son and friends. He was a master gardener, and was known for his tomatoes.

Johnny served over 25 years as a volunteer firefighter for the city of Shawnee and was awarded the Kenneth DeWing Award. He was a member of the American Legion Peter Smith Post #327 for 27 years. Johnny was a dedicated family-man who always brought out the best in people and left you with a smile on your face.

He is survived by his loving wife Barbara, of 44 years; his mother, Edith Baier; son, Darren Baier; daughter, Denise Streeter; grandson, Benjamin John Joseph Moody; two brothers, David Baier and Daniel Baier; two sisters, Sharon Gallamore and husband Gene, and Cecelia Wing and husband Floyd; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Visitation will be 4 to 6 p.m., Sunday, September 9, 2012, at the Amos Family Funeral Home and Crematory. Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Monday, September 10, 2012, at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Shawnee Mission Memory Gardens.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to:

American Alzheimer's Association

Heart of America Chapter

3846 W. 75th Street

Prairie Village, Kansas 66208

or

Odyssey Hospice

8735 Rosehill Road

Lenexa, Kansas 66215