Obituary of Howard A. Bixler

Howard A. Bixler of Bridgewater, NJ passed away peacefully on June 22, 2020 at his home under the care of Hospice and his loving wife of 43years, JoAnne Burke Bixler. Born in Chicago, Howard was employed as an Engineer at AT&T for 37 years, and attended the University of Chicago and Illinois Institute of Technology. His true calling, however, was as an EMT and Rescue Squad member. He worked with Martinsville Rescue Squad for 32 years and served as Captain and Trustee as well as a care giving First Responder. Howard was also a devoted teacher of life saving skills, and mentor to many who aspired to make a difference in life, as he did. Howard was an accomplished skier, sailor, watercolor artist, and had a deep love of his country. He served in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict and had a keen interest in all things political that could benefit his community and his country. He is survived by his wife and soul mate JoAnne, his son Russell Bixler and wife Serene Nakano of New York City, his son Howard R. Bixler of New Castle, Colorado, his grandchildren Adam Bixler and Allie Francis of North Bergen, Thomas Bixler of Portland, Oregon, Cally and Zach Ignacio of Arveda, Colorado and their children Theo and Hector, his niece and Goddaughter Maureen Claire Sessa of Millburn, and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Mary Kay and Jerome Sessa of Metuchen, and a true multitude of loyal friends. Visitation will be held at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Martinsville on Friday June 26 from 9 to 10 AM in the church with Mass following at 10:30 am. Interment will be private through Higgins Home for funerals. In lieu of flowers, donation may be made to the Martinsville Rescue Squad.