10/28/2025
Four County Community Foundation is pausing to celebrate the life and legacy of Janet Bauer who passed away earlier this week at the age of 76. Janet served as Four County Community Foundation’s president/CEO for 20 years, having retired in 2018.
“Our community has lost a remarkable leader. Janet Bauer’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to philanthropy and service. Through her years as Executive Director of the Four County Community Foundation, she touched countless lives and strengthened the fabric of our region,” said Sean O’Bryan, who previously served on 4CCF’s board of trustees.
“Her kindness, vision, and steady leadership will be deeply missed, but her impact will continue to be felt for generations. But most all, many of us will miss her as a good and thoughtful friend.”
Janet played a significant role in the Foundation’s growth over two decades. During her tenure, 4CCF’s assets nearly quadrupled, growing from $4.9 million to $16 million. Many of 4CCF’s most sizable funds were made possible by her work with donors including the Hilda M. Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund, which has awarded more than half a million dollars to Almont, Capac and Imlay City graduates since 2004, and the Dora & Toos Ondersma Fund that’s granted more than $700,000 to a variety of community projects across 4CCF’s service area since 2011.
Janet was at the helm when the Foundation offices moved from Romeo to Almont where it took up residence in the historic Currier home on E. St. Clair Street.
"It was my honor and privilege to work with Janet at Four County Community Foundation for over five years," said Sara Kruger, 4CCF's accountant.
"To our many donors, grantees, and friends of the Foundation, Janet provided a listening ear, a patient demeanor, a quick wit and a ready smile, and even a shoulder to cry on. Janet is an inspiration to all of us for living each day to its fullest – working hard, but also taking the time to enjoy life. She loved to spend time with her family and friends, attend Michigan State football games, and explore the world. Janet will be greatly missed by her friends at the Foundation and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her."
Her successor and 4CCF’s current Executive Director, Kathy Dickens, said Janet described her career in philanthropy as a “dream job” and most enjoyed visiting grantee projects to see their work in action.
Dickens praised Janet for her ability to handle the multi-faceted role of CEO with tact and grace, always having the best interests of the Foundation in mind.
“We owe her a debt of gratitude for her unwavering dedication to our 4CCF community,” Dickens said.
Memorial service plans are pending. Look for updated information and Janet’s full obituary at https://www.muirfh.com/obituaries/Janet-Bauer?obId=46017693
