James Richard Baer, 90, Rushville, died at 6:18 a.m. Wednesday, August 11, 2021 at his residence.  
    He was born on March 21, 1931 in Beardstown, a son of the late Herschel D. & Helen Louise Wheeler Baer .  He married Rose Marie Skiles on July 5, 1963 in Rushville.  She preceded him in death on February 5, 2018.  
    He is survived by one daughter, Ann Margaret Wyman and husband, Butch of East Peoria, three sons, Joseph Baer of Peoria, Jon Baer of Reno, Nevada, Phillip Baer and wife, Robin of Peoria; seven grandchildren, Shaun, Blair, Taylor, PJ, Tori, Cody, Lexi; three great grandchildren, Kinley Ann, Tyler Marie, Jonah Jasmine; three brothers, Ted Baer and Marilyn Wheeler of Rushville, Tom Baer, Jack Baer and wife, Linda, all of Godfrey; three sisters, Pat Kramer of Godfrey, Judy Dewitt of Beardstown, Nancy Magness and husband, Stan of Quincy;  numerous nieces and nephews.  
    He was preceded in death by one daughter, Vanessa Lea Baer, two brothers, Phil Baer and Bill Baer, three sisters, Gloria Mallicoat, Peg Elmore and Carolyn Spillers.  
    He graduated from Beardstown High School in 1949.  He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.  He worked for the CB&Q Railroad in Joliet.  He also worked for Caterpillar in Peoria until retiring in 1989.  He enjoyed fishing, antiques and especially working on clocks.
    Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 20, 2021 at Rushville City Cemetery with Military Honors by Schuyler American Legion Post #4 and U.S. Air Force Honor Detail.
    Memorials may be given to Schuyler American Legion Post #4.  
    Private condolences & expressions of sympathy may be sent through the Worthington Funeral Home website at www.worthingtonfh.com