Wilhelm Baur was born in Metz (February 17, 1883), in Alsace-Lorraine, which was then part of Germany.

At the beginning of the Second World War, Wilhelm Baur was appointed Chief of Staff of the Higher Flying-Training-Commander.

Baur was promoted to the rank of major general (Generalmajor) in July 1941.

In May 1942, Baur worked at the headquarters of the armies, with General Walther von Unruh.

In September 1944, Wilhelm Baur was eventually placed in Führer-Reserve until the end of the war.