Chester F. Bauch

Chester F Bauch "Chet" 90, of Centerville, died Thursday, December 23, 2021 after injuries and complications due to a fall in his home.

Chet was born August 25, 1931 to German immigrant parents Fredrick and Liesbeth Bauch. Chet is survived by his wonderful wife of 59 years Betty J Bauch (Jones), daughters Jill (Donnie) Acuff, Jacqui (Mark) Griffith and 4 grandchildren, Carson, Braden, Riley, and Reese.

As a first generation born American, the American Dream was Chet's to make. He graduated from Stivers High School in 1949 where he became interested in Jazz music and playing in a band. Chet furthered his education at Purdue University where he was instrumental in starting their Jazz band that is still a big part of Purdue life for hundreds of students today. He graduated with an Industrial Economics degree in 1955. After graduation, Chet enlisted into the Navy as an officer and was honorably discharged upon completion on his tour as a LTJG in 1958. Chet found his interest in Electrical Engineering while in the Navy and again went on to further his education in that field at the University of Dayton graduating in 1962. Chet worked for NCR, General Motors, SAI and eventually owning his own electronics rep firm, Omega Sales with his wife, Betty and his business partner Howard Weisbrot in 1984. Omega was an extremely successful electronics rep firm for 33 years. Chet was well known and well respected in the electronics industry.

Alongside his occupation, he always found time to play, compose, arrange and teach Jazz music. Chet was an accomplished pianist, clarinetist, and saxophonist for over 70 years of his long life. Chet wrote, composed, and arranged Jazz music for his own Jazz band The Big Brass Ball, along for Purdue University, Sinclair College, Wright State University, The Ohio State University, The Army Band, The Dayton and Middletown Philharmonic Orchestras as well as other musical entities. Chet's love and knowledge for music got The Ohio State University reaching out to him to teach in their College of Music Jazz Arranging Program which he accepted graciously and did so for 10 years.

Chet was a musical and business mentor to many different people throughout his lifetime imparting his wisdom that will continue to permeate the world even after he's gone. Chet was a proud member of the Engineer's Club, the Civics Club and various Arts Councils throughout his life. Chet enjoyed time out with family and friends to his very last day and his accomplishments are many and greater than what's just listed here. If you knew him, you knew about most of them. If you didn't know him personally, you probably have heard of him. Especially if you were involved in Jazz music or electronics. He was that great of a person.

Due to the current world events, a Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring. We hope you all will join us in celebrating Thee Chet Bauch.

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