Barry Elton Bayer

Barry Elton Bayer, 77, passed away peacefully surrounded by love of his family at Ava's Hospice House in Sioux Falls, SD on Saturday, August 15, 2026. 

A memorial service will begin at 11:00 am, followed by inurnment on Friday, September 18, 2026 at Hills of Rest Mausoleum, 300 N. Chapel Hill Rd, Sioux Falls, SD.

Barry, the second of three children, was born to Elton “Max” Bayer and Sylvia Nelson and grew up in Sioux Falls. He graduated from Washington High School and went on to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he earned a degree in business. After college, Barry returned to Sioux Falls and became an entrepreneur and businessman. He opened an exotic car dealership on South Cliff Avenue in Sioux Falls and later built the Westport Bowling complex. He also opened “The Living Room,” a popular lounge at Western Mall.

A gifted and passionate bowler, Barry traveled throughout the United States competing in tournaments and making lifelong friendships along the way. He was also an avid golfer and spent his winters in Palm Springs, California, where he could enjoy golfing year-round.

Another great love of Barry’s was playing cards, especially gin rummy. His talent at the game took him all the way to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he proudly won the World’s Gin Rummy Tournament.

Barry was a member of East Side Lutheran Church in Sioux Falls. He lived life to the fullest and was blessed with an extraordinary number of friends in South Dakota and across the nation. Among those especially dear to him were Pam, Sarah, and Collins.

Barry’s beloved cat, Miss Kitty, was his constant companion and best friend. She will surely miss the special bond they shared.

Barry often expressed his gratitude for the life he had lived, saying, “I have been blessed and have lived a magical life!”

He is survived by his sister, Bonnie McKee of Sioux Falls; nephew, Shon; nieces, Robin and Staci; and a large extended family, along with many cherished friends who will miss him dearly.

Barry was preceded in death by his parents, Elton “Max” Bayer and Sylvia Nelson, and his sister, Bette Bayer Cottingham.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, September 18, officiated by Pastor Layne Nelson, at the mausoleum in Hills of Rest Cemetery, 300 N. Chapel Hill Road, Sioux Falls, SD 57103.