Granville “Neil” Bauer

It is with heavy and broken hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Granville “Neil” Bauer, who left us in his sleep, as gently as he lived—full of grace, humor and warmth.

Neil had an unforgettable presence. He lived life boldly and fully—whether out hunting or fishing, whittling knives with care, playing cards with family, or laughing with his brother, George. He had the rare gift of turning strangers into friends within moments. His easy charm and deep love of conversation made him a magnetic spirit who thrived when surrounded by people.

For 57+4 beautiful years, Neil was married to the love of his life, Catherine Noble Bauer. Together they raised two wonderful children, George and Kimberly, creating a home filled with laughter, love and lasting memories. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Brady, Quinlynn, Jorja, and Hudson, children of George James Bauer; and to Lauren (Scott) Kirkland, daughter of Kimberly Bauer.

Neil’s bond with his identical brother, George, was truly extraordinary—a lifetime of closeness that defies description. Neil could be heard saying daily that George was “the best brother anyone could have in the whole world.” From childhood mischief to daily phone conversations and weekly card games in their later years, the two were rarely apart. 

They swapped identities as kids, cut hair side by side as barbers, fished every creek around Libby, coached softball together, and raised families who shared that same deep connection. Each named his firstborn after the other—a testament to their unbreakable bond. Neil often said how proud he was to have Neili as his namesake, expressing it daily with love and joy. George’s wife Betty, their children Neili (Jeff) Marozzo, Tomi (Byron) Peterson and extended family Dylan, Allyson, Ryan, Colter and Emma, all carry the legacy of that closeness with pride and love.

Neil also cherished the lasting bond he shared with his sister, Shirley, and held dear his connection to her children, Susan Morrow and Rick Morrow, along with their children—Nick, Margret and Rachel. He carried fond memories of time spent with Carol and Bob Paige and their children—Jan, Mike, Kenny, and Sophie—as well as many other beloved relatives whose names are too numerous to list. Among his most treasured relationships were his lifelong friendships with Greg Ohland and Victor Albertini—more than 40 years filled with stories, laughter and unwavering companionship.

Throughout his life, Neil wore many hats—both literally and figuratively. He served his country in the National Guard, his community on the school board, and justice as head of investigations and an Undersheriff for the county sheriff’s department. He spent much of his career as a barber, blending his trade with his natural storytelling talent and his love of connecting with others. In later years, he pursued his passion for knife-making, running a successful business at local markets and proudly sharing his craftsmanship.

Perhaps nowhere was Neil’s joy more evident than on the softball field, coaching his beloved nieces Neili and Tomi alongside his brother. Those games were never just about winning—they were about family, laughter and lifelong memories.

Our loved ones are gifts we cherish during their time here and honor long after they’re gone. Neil made a difference in countless lives with his kindness, wisdom and sense of humor. He left his mark on our hearts and in our memories.

We will miss him terribly—his stories, his warmth, his voice. But we take comfort in knowing he is now at peace and we look forward to the day we see him again in heaven.

A celebration of life for Neil will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 14, at the Schnackenberg Funeral Home; 422 West 2nd Street, Libby, Montana. There will be a reception following the service at the American Legion in Libby.

All who knew and loved him are welcome to come and share stories—just as Neil loved to do.

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby, Montana. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com.