Howard E. Bixler

Howard E. Bixler, 83, of Goshen, while surrounded by family, was called to his heavenly home, Thursday, December 16, 2021, at Waterford Crossing, where he had been a resident since September.

He was born February 27, 1938, in Mishawaka to Forest and Dorothy (Schieber) Bixler.

He graduated from Goshen High School in 1956 and went on to serve with Brethren Volunteer Service in New Windsor, Maryland, where he met the love of his life, Iva “Pearl” (Walter) Bixler.  They were joined in marriage August 6, 1960.  Pearl passed away May 2, 2013.

Survivors include a son, Rodney (Joanne) Bixler of Oakland, Nebraska; a daughter, Cathy (Lon) Wenger of Syracuse; four grandchildren, Ryan Bixler of Oakland, Nebraska, Tracey (Travis) Tonkinson of Malcolm, Nebraska, Carrie (Andrew) Hilty of Fort Wayne, and Kyle Wenger of Syracuse; four great grandchildren, Malachi and Esther Hilty, and Miles and Owen Tonkinson, with another on the way; a brother, Donald Bixler of Goshen; and sisters, Virginia (Larry) Hartsough of Goshen and Ruth (Wayne) Barber of Elkhart.

Along with his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Wilma Jean Bixler.

Howard was employed by Veada Industries and Harmon Glass.  He also enjoyed his side business of selling Econo Trailers.

He was a devoted husband, dad, grandpa and great-grandpa, and enjoyed time with his family.  He had a love for woodworking, gardening, feeding the birds, camping and going to auctions.  In recent years he most likely could be found sitting in his lawn chair in his garage, visiting with family and neighborhood friends, and sharing treats with his many dog friends.

He was a longtime member of West Goshen Church of the Brethren where he served as deacon and trustee.

Visitation will be Sunday, December 19, 2021, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Yoder-Culp Funeral Home and Monday, December 20, from 12:30 until the 1:30 p.m. funeral service at West Goshen Church of the Brethren.  Family friend Tim Yoder will officiate.

Burial will follow in West Goshen Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be given to West Goshen Church of the Brethren.