Leo Peter Sauer was born May 18, 1929, in Kenosha, WI, to Leo G. and Beata A. (nee Pankow) Sauer. He was reborn into the Kingdom of God through holy baptism on June 2, 1929. He confirmed his faith in the True and Living TRIUNE GOD at Bethany Ev. Lutheran Church in Kenosha, WI, in June, 1943. His soul went to be with his SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST on August 28, 2019, where he awaits the day of resurrection.
Leo Peter was a 1947 graduate of Mary D. Bradford High School in Kenosha, WI. He studied a year in Watertown, WI, at Northwestern (Seminary) Prep. College and continued his education at the University of Chicago in Illinois. He was graduated in 1971 with an Honorary Bachelor of Arts Degree (BA) in mechanical engineering, and a Masters Degree (MBA).
His work experience began in 1945 at the family business, the Dairy Service Equipment Company, where he served as bookkeeper and mechanical engineer. He went on to be employed at Signode Steel Strapping Company for 35 years, which included the merger with Illinois Tool Works (ITW). His final and favorite position was as Managing Project Engineer. It led him into research projects around the United States and overseas.
Peter married Elaine Helen Kersten on January 28, 1951. Elaine and two children, Bradley and Timothy, preceded him to Heaven. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Pastor Joel Ph. Sauer and his sister, Marcie A. Hagen. He is survived by two daughters, Barbara (and Edward III) Ubert and Jennifer Sauer, son Michael (and Donna) Sauer; his sister, Mary (and Richard) Hannenberg; as well as grandchildren; great grandchildren, and nephews, nieces [and their children].
During his lifetime, Peter was highly respected for his wisdom, integrity, and reverence for the Lord. His courage, counsel, and spiritual strength inspired many who know him, and he truly glorified his God. He was notably active in his church families at Bethany Ev. Lutheran and Mt. Zion Ev. Lutheran churches in Kenosha, WI. After moving his family to Northbrook and Glenview, IL, he was an active member at Jerusalem Ev. Lutheran Church in Morton Grove, IL. He retired to Sister Bay, WI, after a short time in Grayslake, IL. There, he and Elaine attended Christ Ev. Lutheran Church in Baileys Harbor, WI. His last move, to Toledo, OR, brought him to Beautiful Savior Ev. Lutheran Church in Corvallis, OR. From there, Peter went on to join the Saints Triumphant.
A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at Christ Ev. Lutheran Church in Baileys Harbor, WI with Pastor Peter Lindemann officiating. Burial will be in Little Sister Cemetery.
Visitation for family and friends will be held at the church on Saturday, September 14, 2019 from 11:30 a.m. until 12:50 p.m.
Memorials may be given for Christ Ev. Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 544, Baileys Harbor, WI 54202.
