Eileen Belle Bayer, 95, passed away peacefully May 8, 2024, at Azria Health Woodhaven, Great Bend, Kan. She was born on May 6, 1929, in Lyons, Kan., to Ernest and Margaret Maye (Bolton) Irvin. Eileen grew up and graduated from Lyons High School.

Eileen fell in love and married Donald Bayer on April 10, 1949 and later welcomed a son, Gregory Bayer. They moved to the farm in Pawnee Rock, Kan. where she became a dedicated farmer’s wife; helping with harvest, meals, and any chores needing to be completed. During her more active years, Eileen enjoyed playing the violin and French horn in high school, singing in the church choir, and following Greg in his sports and musical activities. Never having idle hands, Eileen enjoyed cooking, crocheting, jig saw puzzles, and could often be found volunteering at CKMC gift shop. She was a faithful servant and attended United Church of Christ for many years. Donald preceded her in death on Nov. 2, 1998. 

Survivors include son Gregory Bayer of Pawnee Rock. She is preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband, brother; Claude Irvin, sister; Vera Burfied, sister; Erma Shoopman, and sister; Norma Koch.

Funeral Service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at Ellinwood Community Church in Ellinwood, Kan. with Pastor Bruce Burfield presiding. Interment will follow at Lakin Commanche Cemetery, Ellinwood, Kan. Visitation will be 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Bryant Funeral Home, with family receiving 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Memorials to Ellinwood Community Church may be given, in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Rd., Great Bend, KS  67530. Condolences may be sent and notice viewed at www.bryantfh.net.

Funeral arrangements provided by

Bryant Funeral Home 

1425 Patton Rd. 

Great Bend, KS  67530

Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, May 11, 2024