Bruce Bixler II's Obituary
Bruce Bixler II, 63, of Alliance, died on Friday, May 11, 2012, at his home. On May 11, 2012, surrounded by his wife and loving family in his home, after a valiant fight with Lymphoma Cancer, Bruce M. Bixler II departed on his final earthly flight and landed in the arms of Jesus. Bruce was the loving husband to Hildegard "Gardi" (Taylor) Bixler whom he married on June 12, 1971 and celebrated 40 years of marriage. Among his many accomplishments, Bruce was the proudest and most loving father to his three children: oldest son James Bruce (Jennifer) Bixler; and twins Joshua M. (Jen) Bixler and Juliette H. (Joseph) Bixler-Gatts. His favorite role became "Poppy" to his seven grandchildren: Marta, James and Becca Bixler, Noah and Michael Bixler, and Taylor and Tessa Gatts. He was born February 14, 1949 and was a graduate of Louisville High School and Ashland University. Bruce was a lover of all things aviation. His passion and love for flying was shared with all he met. Some of his most treasured memories and times were spent flying with his sons in his Taylorcraft. He was the president of the Taylorcraft Owners Club for years, and an active member of EAA Chapters 82 and 147, and FLY4HIM. Mr. Bixler retired from the Canton City Health Department. Bruce is survived by his wife and children; brothers, Doug Bixler and Steve Bixler; sisters, Susan Bixler and Joanne Bixler-Clifton; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and beloved friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bruce M. Bixler and Elizabeth E. (Rees) Bixler. The family would like to thank Dr. Schmotzer and the staff at Morning Star Oncology, all the nurses "Angels" and staff of Aultman Hospital Memorial 6 South, Aultman Infusion staff, Yes You Can staff, Chaplain Kathleen Schen and Aultman Hospice for their amazing care, love, compassion and comfort they showed to Bruce and his family. Bruce requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, and that you do something special with your family and loved ones, and treasure those moments. Please join us for a celebration of Bruce s life, loves, and accomplishments at Marlboro Christian Church on Saturday, May 19, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Ed Harnish officiating. The family will receive friends at Sharer-Stirling-Skivolocke Funeral Home on Friday, May 18, 2012 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Arrangements are by the Sharer-Stirling-Skivolocke Funeral Home, 1000 S. Union Avenue, Alliance, Ohio 44601.
What’s your fondest memory of Bruce?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bruce?
Share a story where Bruce's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bruce you’ll never forget.
How did Bruce make you smile?