It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Melissa Ann Bauer, a beloved mother, grandmother, and community member, who died peacefully at home on March 26, 2026, at the age of 65. Known for her boundless energy and love for family, Melissa was a devoted Mawmaw to her two granddaughters and a cherished member of the Highland Heights community.
Born to Richard Frank and Joan Clair (Shearer) Trauth, Melissa was a lifelong resident of Highland Heights. She found joy in everything she did, whether it was caring for dogs at her daycare, spending time with her grandchildren, or enjoying the sunshine during trips to Florida. Known for her loving nature, Melissa made everyone feel at home and was known for treating every dog in her care as though it were her own.
Melissa was the proud owner of Watch UR Dog Daycare in Highland Heights, where she became a staple in the community. Her genuine love for animals was apparent in the way she treated each dog, forming connections that brought comfort to both pets and their owners. Clients often remarked on the peace of mind they had knowing their dogs were in her loving hands. Beyond her work, Melissa also found joy in being a member of the Bad Ass B Girls, where she forged lasting friendships built on support, laughter, and kindness.
But Melissa’s most cherished role was being a Mawmaw to her two granddaughters, Zoe and Aurora Bauer. The bond she shared with them was truly special, and they brought her immense joy and love. Whether it was sharing stories, going on outings, or simply spending quiet moments together, Melissa’s heart was full when she was with her granddaughters.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard Frank and Joan Clair (Shearer) Trauth, her brother David “Homer” Trauth, and her husband, Mike Bauer. She is survived by her significant other, Steve Arrowood; sons Eric (Sarah) Bauer and Jacob Smithers; brothers Rick (Joyce) Trauth and Jeff Trauth; and grandchildren Zoe and Aurora Bauer. Melissa is also survived by a large extended family, including nieces and nephews Ryan (Heather) Trauth, Rachel (Adam) Caswell, Nicole Bauer, Jessica (Brian) Bornhorst, Danny Bauer, Sam Bauer, Christopher Bauer, Jason Bauer, Bryan Bauer, Trevor Schwartz, Tyler Bauer, and Matthew Bauer, as well as brothers-in-law David (Debbie) Bauer and Sammy (Jackie) Bauer, and sister-in-law Karen Bauer.
In honor of Melissa’s life, a visitation will be held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Cooper Funeral Home in Alexandria. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Church in Alexandria, Kentucky. Following the service, Melissa will be laid to rest with her family at the cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial donations be made to Robin Nest, a local organization dedicated to supporting families, at 128 Creekstone, Cold Spring, KY 41076, or to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, which provides support to first responders and military families, at T2T.org.
Melissa Ann Bauer’s legacy is one of love, service to others, and the joy she brought to everyone who knew her. Her passing has left a hole in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her, but her love for her family and community will never be forgotten. May she rest in peace, and may her memory continue to inspire those who knew her to live with kindness, generosity, and the same zest for life that she exemplified.