Charlie was born March 2, 1940 in Phoenix, Arizona. He was a veteran, business executive and Board Director with a large corporation based in the valley where he dedicated himself for almost 50 years. He died in the presence of his four, loving children and sister on August 23, 2017. He attended the University of Notre Dame, on a military scholarship, graduating cum lade in 1962. He then went on to serve his country as an officer in the United States Navy (1962-1967). During his travels with the armed forces, he met the love of his life, Sally McMahon, and they married in 1966. His assignment resulted in deployment to Vietnam, where he served two tours of duty, his final aboard the USS Asheville. After honoring his commitment to the Navy, he returned to Phoenix with his wife and first born child and they continued to grow their young family. He would go on to earn an MBA at Arizona State University in 1972. He is survived by daughters Susan Bayer and Ann Zbiegien (Jim), sons CJ (Jen) and Jim (Amanda), eight grandchildren, Bella, Catherine, Nic, Thomas, Luc, Gracie, Michael, Lexie and sister, Suzi Cruz. He was a dedicated, loving husband and father who shared his passion for the outdoors with anyone who was willing to share in the fun. The treasured memories of family vacations by the ocean, camping around so many unique and beautiful sites, whether at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, high in the mountains or in the favored Oak Creek Canyon, will always remind family of times filled with laughter and joy. He was enamored with backpacking during his life and this led to many outings around the state which he also shared with friends and family. During his life, he was a long-distance runner who, accompanied by his adventurous wife, would participate in organized events from medium distance races to full length marathons. He was a pillar of strength, a purveyor of wisdom and an example of humility for his family, always placing their needs before his personal wants. The subtle lessons he imparted, combined with the compassion and courage he displayed while caring for his ailing wife of 45 years will serve as an everlasting example of the true meaning of love. His lasting memory will live on in his children, grandchildren, and sister affording them the joy and comfort his presence always brought them. Visitation will be from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. with a Rosary at 7:00 P.M. on Tuesday, August 29th at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Rd. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, August 30th, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 2312 E. Campbell, Phoenix.
Matt Toney
Mr Bayer,
You were a great influence and mentor, especially in regards to the outdoors. From the Kaibab plateau, to the bottom of the Grand Canyon to camping in the high desert, you helped form my respect and enjoyment of the outdoors.
The one lesson I remember: Don’t look at your oatmeal, just eat it.
Thanks for the great memories, you will be missed.
Bob Dudley
We are deeply saddened by the loss that your family has encountered. Our hearts go,out to you during this trying time and may our prayers serve as comfort to your family.
Bob and Brenda Dudley
Dante Bartoletti
Mr. Bayer was a rock of discipline, morals, duty and ethics. He served, through his actions and words, as a role model and leader. His presence will be greatly missed. God Speed, Sir. God Speed.
PATRICIA A DORAN
Ann and family, may our loving and merciful Lord give grace an d consolation to you. I did not know Mr. Bayer, but I have been blessed and honored to know Ann who must have made him so proud. She is a reflection of his legacy and an acknowledgement that he served God well in his life and will continue to serve through Ann and his entire family, I am sure. May God have mercy on his soul.
Alan L Weinstein
I will always remember Charlie as a true gentleman. He was always nice to me, very supportive and quick with a quip. I shall miss him greatly…and I wish you speedy passage through this difficult time.
Barry Kellogg
I can’t say enough about Charlie. He was a great boss, mentor and friend. A true gentleman in every sense of the word. It was truly an honor and pleasure to have had him in my life. I will miss him greatly. Our sincerest condolences to his family.
Barry and Janis Kellogg
Kitty Woodward
To the family:
I miss Charlie`s smiling face and watching him care for his beautiful plants on his back porch.
It was an honor to know him and I knew he was a great guy the day I met him.
He was a wonderful neighbor!
God Bless Charlie!
Kitty