BIX C. HAYDEN

Bix Hayden was born to Doris and Cliff Hayden on July 2, 1943. He died unexpectedly, but peacefully at his home on Monday, March 5, 2012. He graduated from Fresno High School in 1961 and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Fresno State College, where he was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity. Bix was an exceptionally gifted athlete, earning varsity letters in football, basketball and baseball at Fresno High. Following his high school career, he pitched at Fresno City College, including a rare perfect game, when the Rams won back to back championships in 1962 and 1963, something that has not been achieved since. Two years later, he pitched for Pete Beiden at Fresno State. He earned a Doctorate in Pharmacy at the University of Pacific in 1970. He was a Pharmacist for over 40 years; he primarily worked at Longs and CVS where he made many personal and professional friendships. Bix married his high school sweetheart, Jill Warren, in 1966. She was deceased in 1973. He subsequently remarried Jenny Jacobson in 1977 and his only son, Jordan Hayden, was born in 1979. Jenny is also deceased. With the exception of the years Bix lived in Stockton to attend the University of the Pacific, he spent his entire life in Fresno. This longevity created a loyal and loving base of many friends. These true friends maintained close, lifelong relationships from elementary school through present day. He was proud of Fresno and that he was a part of this close knit group of friends. Bix's interest in athletics never wavered and he remained involved in coaching and mentoring young Fresno athletes throughout his life. He and his family were joyous spectators at Jordan's many athletic events. Travel was another interest which he enjoyed with Jordan, his mother Doris, brother Curt and his wife Denise. He looked forward to opening annual dove season and fabulous fishing trips with his buddies. He especially enjoyed talking about and showing pictures of his grandsons. Sophie, his dog, was a constant companion. For all who were lucky enough to be in Bix's company, you know he loved to laugh, tell stories and be the life of the party. He will be missed each day. He leaves to honor his memory his son, Jordan and daughter in law, Jennifer; his grandsons, Palmer and Jackson; his brother, Curt Hayden and his wife Denise; niece, Lily Hayden; nephew, Max Hayden; aunt, Esther Sowers; sister-in-law, Melinda Homola and her husband, Jim; and his many loving friends. Please join in the Celebration of Bix's Life on at Ovidio's Restaurant on Bullard and Marks Avenues, on Friday, March 23, 2012, at 1:30 p.m. Remembrances may be made to the donor's favorite charity.