Gerald (Jerry) Bixler

Gerald (Jerry) Bixler, 83, of West Des Moines, passed peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 12th, 2021, with his loving wife of 65 years, Julia (Cricket) by his side.

Jerry was born Nov. 16th, 1937, to John and Rhoda Bixler. He attended Lincoln High School in Des Moines. Jerry was a Railroader for 40 years before he retired from Union Pacific in 1995.

He met and fell in love with Julia (Cricket) Matney and they married on Dec. 23rd, 1955. They had five children and were blessed with 26 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild, all of who brought such joy and were the light of his life.

While retired, he enjoyed spending time with his family, doing ceramics, eating out, feeding his birds, playing slots at the casino, and watching his favorite Iowa Hawkeyes.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Jim Bixler, sister, Nettie Nelson, and his parents, John and Rhoda Bixler. He is survived by his wife, Julia (Cricket), his five children, John (Kathy), Linda (Jeff Dobbins), Jerry Jr. (Roxanne), Peggy (Ron Cook), Steve (Shellby), and all his grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Autism Society of Iowa for Autism Research at Autismia.com, a charity that was near and dear to Jerry’s heart.

Services will be held at Hamilton’s Funeral Home (605 Lyon Street, Des Moines) on Monday, Jan. 18th, 2021 at 2:30 p.m. For one hour prior to the service, a visitation will be held and all are welcome. FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED for both events.

The family would like to thank the healthcare staff of Methodist Younkers 8. We appreciate the loving support and care you provided to Jerry during his extended stay.

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