OBITUARY
James A. Bixby
August 25, 1943 – February 4, 2021
James A. Bixby (Jim) died in Woodbury, MN, on February 4, 2021, at the age of 77 from CHF and COPD. Jim is survived by his wife of 56 years, Karen (Laurin) Bixby. Together they raised four children: Todd (Dana) Bixby from Greencastle, PA; Doug (Carolyn) Bixby from North Attleboro, MA; Bob (Trish) Bixby from Woodbury, MN; and Jennifer (Jessica) Moulton-Bixby from Pittsfield, MA. He leaves behind nine grandchildren: Ethan, Katie, Laurin, Westcott, Kiersten, Andrew, Peyton, Taylor, and Alexa.
Jim was born on August 25, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Raymond and Doris Bixby, who preceded him in death. He was the oldest of three and leaves behind his brother Mark Bixby and sister Barbara Landau. Jim and Karen both graduated from Brush High School but officially met at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. Most of his career was spent working for Sealed Air Corporation in sales management and corporate leadership. Jim and Karen moved around the country – living in Georgia, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Illinois -- as he served the growing company. They spent the last 30+ years living in Newtown, Connecticut.
Jim was an accomplished leader at Sealed Air Corporation, retiring as a vice president in 2006. He loved hiring and mentoring people within the company and was passionate about his work, as well as the relationships and connections he built throughout the years. Above all, he loved his family and was a huge support to his children and grandchildren. He coached their recreational sports teams and rarely missed a school game, play, concert, or activity. He was a member of various churches over the years around the country -- always joining churches he and Karen felt would be best for their family. Jim and Karen spent many joy filled family vacations with their children in Ocean City, New Jersey; and with their children and grandchildren on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. An avid golfer, Jim enjoyed his membership at Newtown Country Club. He enjoyed playing “bridge” with members of the Danbury Men’s Club and new friends in Woodbury, MN – often playing online during the pandemic. He enjoyed fishing and especially loved the time he spent with his son Bob on the lakes near his home in Minnesota. He supported numerous charities and service organizations throughout the years. His passion for autism research was motivated by his love for his youngest granddaughter, Alexa.
A memorial service via Zoom is scheduled for Friday, February 12, at 4 pm (CST) / 5 pm (EST). Please click on the following link to join: https://umass-amherst.zoom.us/j/4224870532. His son, Rev. Doug Bixby, will facilitate the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Organization for Autism Research (in memory of Jim Bixby) at 2111 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 401; Arlington VA 22201. Donations can also be made on their website: researchautism.org.
A private committal service will take place at a later date in Newtown, CT.
DONATIONS
- Organization for Autism Research
Services
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Memorial Zoom Service
Friday, February 12, 2021
Memories
James A. Bixby
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ADD A MEMORYBob Kayser
February 14, 2021
When I think of Jim, I begin to smile and inevitably end up chuckling to myself thinking back on some really entertaining moments with Jim. Jim's energy and enthusiasm was so infectious. As with many great leaders, Jim didn't have to beat you to get you to do your job. You just did it because you didn't want to disappoint him.
I know too well what it is like to lose a Dad, Husband, and Grandfather, as my own Dad passed away less than two weeks ago. My heart goes out to Karen and the entire Bixby family. When you finally make it through the grief, you will undoubtedlly have so many reasons to smile and then chuckle as you think of this great man.
Mike Syroka
February 13, 2021
To Jim’s family I want to say Thank You for sharing such a wonderful person who helped guide me through my sales career he was a very caring person one that was always there for you he will truly be missed. God Bless!
Andy Green
February 12, 2021
I met Jim on Bald Eagle lake almost exactly a year ago. I immediately felt like I had known him for decades. He took in the entire group that day just like we were all old friends. In the couple hours I was able to spend with him, it was clear what a wonderful man he was. Those of you that really did know him for decades should consider yourselves very lucky. Men like him don't come along very often!
Mark Nennig
February 12, 2021
Jim was highly regarded - and respected by so many, in the years he helped to build Sealed Air into the global company it is today. His leadership is well documented by all that had spent time with him at the company over the years.
On a more personal note - as a true mentor, Jim was sincere and his comments and advice were well placed and served me well during my career with the company.
My prayers and thoughts go to Karen, their children and grandchildren with his passing. He is well and no doubt smiling upon all of us.
The Lord be with you Jim.
Bill Barry
February 12, 2021
Jim,
Rest in peace my friend. I will always remember my first interview with you at your home in Randolph, N.J. I got to meet Karen, Todd, and Doug. After you hired me, you became a great teacher, leader and manager.
I always enjoyed seeing you in Danbury and Chicago. You were always there for all the people who worked for you directly. I admired how you were always there for Karen, the boys and Jennifer with all of their school activities. Upon retirement in 2008, I started the OFC (Old Farts Club) with John Tully, Max Fessler, and Ted Eppel. But we made you, Dave Ketchan and Carol Liso, honorary members.
Thanks for all your help throughout my career at SAC. You were my first and best boss!
Karen, you are in my prayers.
Bill Barry
Lionel Brown
February 12, 2021
Farewell, Jim.....
I'm going to miss you. You were one of my best email buddies, and golfing friends.
Deepest condolences to the entire family, and especially to Karen.
Lionel & Margareta Brown
Fausto Villa
February 12, 2021
For ever in my dears and success professional moments .
Have The best trip Possible Jim .
Fausto
Li Xin
February 11, 2021
Thanks Jim for being a mentor and leader at Sealed Air. You’re missed by all of us who worked with you. RIP.
John Parille
February 11, 2021
My deepest condolences to the family on the passing of one very special man. Jim and I connected when we were serving in Rotary together. Jim came to work for me as a salesman for my two companies and we really got to connect.
I loved Jim's style! Jim was "old school" when it came to customer care, and that is a compliment! Everyone loved Jim, his smile, his funny laugh and of course a good joke or two. He loved his family and was known to brag about children and grandchildren.
I take great comfort in knowing that Jim was a man of God, and I will see him again, hopefully on the back nine! RIP my friend.
Eileen Curran
February 11, 2021
Jim was always gracious and open to the Sealed Air newcomers and taught me a lot about teamwork and loyalty. Prayers to his family.
Ralph Mcnabb
February 11, 2021
Jim and I were in the original group of sales reps hired at Sealed Air to pioneer the product line. Many great memories with Jim through the years. He always supported “his people” and was a great guy to work for! Karen, I pray God will bless you and the kids with mercy and grace at this difficult time.
Stephen DiPirro
February 11, 2021
He was a great Sales Leader within Sealed Air and was highly respected by all.
His contribution over the years, to the success of the company and the success of many individuals is immeasurable.
RIP Jim
Joe Reeder
February 10, 2021
I have many great memories of Jim as he mentored me during my early career years at Sealedair. Jim was was always there to help his team grow and succeed.
Sean Kerins
February 9, 2021
A Sealed Air legend , mentor and generous person who really cared about the people who he associated with.