Francis L. "Fritz" Bauman, age 79 of Big Rapids, passed away Sunday, July 26, 2015 at his home. He was born July 22, 1936 in O'Neill, Nebraska the son of Ralph and Elvaetta (Bellinger) Bauman. Fritz was honorably discharged from the United States Army. Following his discharge he moved to Big Rapids and married the former Georgia Jorgensen. Fritz began his working career as a welder on the Pipeline and later took a welding position at Michigan Consolidated Gas Company retiring in 1998. Fritz was a member of AmVets Post 1941 and American Legion Post 98 both of Big Rapids. He was a member of their honor guard unit. Fritz also enjoyed bowling on local Big Rapids teams for many years. He is survived by his wife Georgia Bauman of Big Rapids; son Allan Bauman of Big Rapids; three grandsons, Chad Bauman of Leroy, Eric Kline of Big Rapids and Ryan Bauman of Big Rapids; a brother, Jonny Bauman of Florida; a sister, JoAnn (Leo) Maguire of Arizona and many nieces and nephews. Fritz was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Sheila Bauman, a son, Brian Bauman, two brothers, Gene Bauman, Bob Bauman; two sisters, Donna Harman and Ellen Corey. There will be no public services. Memorial contributions in Fritz's name may be made to the American Cancer Society. Envelopes may be obtained at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids.