This from Evan Rude:
I came across this fundraiser for a walk that the stepson of Tom Bauer of the Des Plaines Fire Department who died suddenly back in 2021 the stepson Dylan Gieck is raising money for The All Clear Foundation and PB Abbate. One is for emergency personnel and the other is for PTSD of veterans. I knew Dylan when we were in high school and he is really passionate for this cause.
Tom Bauer was born May 29, 1980 just outside Chicago, Illinois. He was the loving husband of Kelly (nee Malohn) Bauer; devoted father of Mason Geick, Dylan Geick, Johnna Geick, and Ty Bauer; caring son of Leo and Mary Bauer; dear brother of Sheila (John) Bauer-Gatsos and Laura Bauer; fond son in law of Jill and Robert Malohn; brother in law of Robert Malohn and uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Tom served as an Infantryman in the U.S. Army from 1999 to 2003. During his service he achieved the rank of E-5 and various awards. He was primarily stationed at Schofield Barracks with 25th ID as an Airborne, Ranger tabbed, Sniper team leader. He served overseas in the Philippines and on other deployments before finishing his contract honorably and separating to pursue his dream of being a father. After a few years at home working in the fitness industry, he again felt called to serve. Upon completion of his schooling and training as an EMT and Paramedic, he entered the Fire Academy and graduated with distinguished honors. He immediately applied for a department in a more troubled community than his own so that he might have a greater impact. He received his first life-saving citation for the revival of a patient in an ambulance in 2014, going on the save and help many others over a long and difficult career. He became a fixture in both the department and the community. However, his lifelong service exacted a heavy toll. Tom struggled with untreated PTSD and burnout, losing this battle and passing on October 22nd, 2021.
