Steven Duane Bixler

The family of Steven Duane Bixler, of Palisade, is saddened to announce his passing on January 14, 2021 at age 61. He was born in McCook, Nebraska on September 18, 1959 to Duane and Darlene (Wilson) Bixler. Steve attended and graduated from Hayes Center High School in 1977. He was a talented athlete and succeeded in football, baseball, basketball, and track and field. He held the high school high jump record at HCHS for over 40 years. Steve started his love for sports as a young boy by playing baseball. He was also a Boy Scout, where he learned many things that helped shape him into the man he was. He could fix anything, build anything, and grow anything. Steve was very active in the upkeep of the Bixler Farm where he and his sisters were raised. He could cook or BBQ better than most. He loved being outdoors. Whether he was fixing the lawn mower, the pickup or the furnace, playing sports, doing chores or taking care of the animals - he would be outside any chance he got. With the slim chance you'd see him inside, he would be throwing in a load of laundry, doing the dishes or being dressed up as a girl by his sisters when he was little - poor guy! Steve then went on to attend Doane college and there played football for 2 years. After that, he transferred to Chadron State College where he continued his athletic career for another year. Steve was blessed with three children, Kaeli, Karyn, and Cole. Steve enjoyed fishing, hunting with his children and grandchildren, and spending time with his family. He was very involved in their athletic careers. Steve loved coaching his children. His favorite part was never sitting in the stands, but always standing close by to be a part of the action. Steve also cherished every moment he spent with his three grandchildren making wonderful memories. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and parents Duane and Darlene Bixler. Those left to celebrate his life include daughters, Kaeli (Curtis) Cole of Omaha, NE; Karyn Bixler of Denver, Co; son Cole Bixler of Greensboro, NC; three grandchildren: Joseph, Oakleigh and Lincoln Cole; two sisters Beckey Young of Honolulu, HI; & Dorinda Bixler of Vancouver, British Columbia; and a wealth of extended family, neighbors and friends. His children are left with many special memories of their father, the most recent was spending this past Christmas with him. Steve celebrated with his children and grandchildren creating memories that will never be forgotten. Steve will always be known as a man of many talents. He spent his entire life refining his career in carpentry becoming the perfect example of the "Steve of all Trades!" We will remember Steve for the unconditional love and support he had for his family and friends as well as his constant ability to take care of people! Steve chose cremation and a "Celebration of Life" with family and friends will be planned for a future date. The family requests any memories and/or donations to help with expenses, be directed to his children, c/o Karyn Bixler, 1920 17th Street, Apt 704 Denver, CO 80202.