Jeffrey Kent Bixler

On January 22, 2024, Jeff Bixler, the man behind the lens and the life of every party passed away at the age of 71, succumbing to the challenges posed by advanced-stage lung cancer and Ataxia 49. Regardless of the multitude of challenges he faced, he somehow maintained his trademark sense of humor even in his final days.

Jeff was truly a unique soul, best known for his creative eye, his signature sass, an excruciating attention to detail, a heart-warming compassion for helping others, and an allure for all things unusual.

In a world that often played by the rules, Jeff lived his life unapologetically inappropriate, often pushing the boundaries of social norms with his brash sense of humor. He had an uncanny ability to walk the fine line between mischievous and charming, and to turn ordinary moments into outlandish memories for those around him.

Jeff was born in Toledo, Ohio on February 24th, 1952. He is survived by his wife Marla, his children Lucas and Melaina, his brother and his family Brian, Debbie, and Ellis, and many beloved cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents Bix and Lois.

A loving husband to Marla for 35 years, Jeff perfectly complimented Marla’s enthusiastic zest for life, bringing a sense of adventure and unpredictability to every facet of their lives. Jeff was living proof that true love can survive a lifetime of eyebrow-raising remarks and shameless cheekiness. Their journey can be marked by unwavering love, endless adventures and projects, playful banter, and countless toasts with friends who turned into family.

As a father, he taught his children, Lucas and Melaina to appreciate the absurdity of life, to never settle for ‘good enough,’ to find life in the mundane, and to never take themselves too seriously. His parenting style was anything but traditional, and his children wouldn’t have it any other way.

In addition to his immediate family, Jeff leaves behind an immense tribe of friends who will forever miss his presence at gatherings, where his humor and infectious spirit would light up the room.

Jeff spent his days capturing life through his camera lens, drawing blueprints, ripping up floorboards, belly up at the lake of the Ozarks, captivating audiences with his storytelling, flipping people off (his gesture of love), and making friends with anyone who crossed his path.

Jeff may no longer be with us in person, but his unfiltered humor, wisdom, and jovial energy will echo in our hearts forever. May his spirit continue to dance through our hearts, forever free and wildly inappropriate.

The family invites friends, fellow rule-breakers, and kindred spirits to a ‘Celebration of Jeff’ on February 10th at Lifted Spirits Distillery. Guests are encouraged to bring their most outrageous stories and fondest memories to share in honor of a man who lived life to the fullest.