On January 3, 2026, my dear uncle passed away and is now in the arms of Jesus. He is now pain free and liberated from hospital machines and suffering. Our family is trying to find peace in this realization but our hearts are broken and our reality will never be the same. This fundraiser is thus being converted to helping with Jeff's funeral expenses and my Auntie Jaye as she navigates several decisions. We appreciate everyone's support, whether it being monetary or prayers or a simple message of encouragement - all of it has been so humbling to our family. Thanks again for all of the support.
A Memorial Service for Jeffrey Armin Baer will be on Friday, April 10th in Rockford. Full details to come. A spring service will allow for out of state family to plan and attend (also for better weather).
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Hello, I’m Michele Spencer and I’m the niece of Jeff Baer (aka Uncle Frye). My sweet uncle underwent surgery to remove esophageal cancer (just 2 days after his 75th birthday) on September 8, 2025. Prior to this, Jeff has always been healthy and never had been hospitalized for any length of time. While serious, this surgery was expected to lead to the complete removal of the cancer and only require about a week of hospitalization. Unfortunately, there were complications from the surgery leading to a hole in both his esophagus and lungs. He has dealt with fevers, infection, pneumonia, and his heart even stopped, requiring CPR. He has a tracheotomy and has been on life support. By the grace of God, he is improving and doing more and more breathing on his own. He will soon be undergoing another surgery to repair the holes. My uncle lives in Rockford, IL; however, the surgery was performed at UW Health University Hospital in Madison, WI. For my aunt to be there with him, she has had to stay at a nearby hotel at a “discounted” rate of $125/night. Obviously, between the travel expenses and long recovery ahead, they are looking at an exorbitant amount of expenses.
It is my goal to help and support my cousin, Joel, and his wife, Kait, who have been supporting his parents as much as they can. Joel will be the beneficiary as he can most easily handle electronic payments and take care of bills for his parents. As an only child myself (like Joel), I know firsthand how cousins, family, and friends can band together to support one another in need. I would love for they and my aunt to only focus on being there for my uncle and his recovery and not have the burden of the financial impact it causes.
If you can find it in your heart to make a donation towards their travel and medical expenses, it would be quite a blessing to this family. If you cannot, please consider adding them to your prayer list. On behalf of my family, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.