Ricky Charles Bixler

Ricky was born in Groton, New York, the only boy of 6 children.

Ricky grew up in Groton and graduated from Groton High School. After high school, Ricky joined the US Marines where he spent the next 3 years. While enlisted, Ricky learned his career serving as a Marine Corp Engineer Equipment Mechanic, under Captain R.S. McLaughlin. Ricky also earned numerous service decorations and awards including; the Combat Action Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnamese Service Medal with 1-star, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, the Vietnamese Campaign Medal and a Rifle Marksmanship Pin. Additionally, he was recommended for Reenlistment and received a Good Conduct Medal commenced on the period of (18Jun1968). Ricky was very proud to be a Vet.

After Ricky was discharged, he moved to Arizona. He continued his career as a Mechanic by opening his own shop called “Ricky’s Auto”. He owned and operated this shop where, not only was he a mechanic, but he also did full car restorations, including the engine, body, paint, trim, etc.

Ricky loved working on his own cars and trucks. He built his own Monster Truck and named it “The Arizona Equalizer”, (not to be confused with (The Equalizer), which his built and operated. Like many racers, Ricky had a primary driver who competed in his cars, Ricky did drive and perform his monster truck at the Arizona Raceway. He raced many of his own cars as well. He loved the excitement and people at the Rallies and he loved driving fast. His favorite sport was Hocky and he loved watching the Road Runners.

Ricky married the love of his life, Christine B. Fox Bixler, on January 3, 2013, at the courthouse in Casa Grande, Arizona and from there spent every minute together.

Ricky leaves behind his wife of 13 years, Christine; his daughter Jasmine (David) Rayfield; three grandchildren Victoria, Elektra and Lucian; and his sister Kim (Gary) V.