Donald Ray Bayer

Donald R. Bayer (89) of Nicholasville, Kentucky, passed away at home on the morning of November 16, 2025. Born on June 11, 1936, in Providence, Kentucky, Don lived a long and richly textured life full of warmth, grit, and an abundance of humor. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Bayer, with whom he shared a long and loving life. Don is survived by his children, Christopher Bayer (Rosie Rivel) and Jennifer (Jeb) Rand; his grandchildren, Carter Maluski, Meghan Bayer (Daniel Shaheen), Emma Bayer, Kaitlin Bayer, Hayden Rand, and Mackenzie Rand; and his great-grandson, Simon Shaheen, each of whom he was so proud of and treasured deeply. Though he returned to Kentucky in his final years, Don remained a Detroiter at heart. Raised in Detroit and settled in Farmington Hills, he spent more than 80 years living in Michigan. He graduated from Wayne State University, earning his degree in accounting and served in the U.S. Army from 1959 to 1965, where he played tenor saxophone in the 97th U.S. Army Band. Don’s early career was spent at Stroh’s Brewery, and he later joined the family business at Dearborn Manufacturing; however, his proudest accomplishment has been supporting his late wife and children in their interests. Don was also very active in his community as a Free Mason and senior member of Shiner’s International. Don found joy and camaraderie in the Model A Club of Lexington, KY, where he shared stories and laughter with friends old and new. At Cedarhurst Assisted Living Apartments, he became a beacon of lightness and warmth, befriending neighbors, lifting spirits, and offering the type of kindness that is both every day and unforgettable. Don was a profoundly hardworking man whose humor never dimmed and whose kindness and devotion to those he loved ran deep. He had a larger-than-life personality with a gift for making friendships with anyone and everyone. Blessed with a fun loving and easy-going demeanor, Don carried a lightness that filled every room and left everyone feeling welcome. A celebration of life will be held at 12 p.m. on Sunday, January 25 at the Bryan House in Wilmore, Kentucky.   Betts & West Funeral Home is honored to serve Donald and the Bayer family during their time of loss. Online guestbook at www.BettsamdWestfuneralhome.com.