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Michael Bixler Obituary
BIXLER, Michael E. Michael E. Bixler, 56, of Quepos, Costa Rica, beloved husband of Ruth (Martin) Bixler, passed away Saturday, (October 15, 2005) at his home in Quepos, with his wife and companion of 30 years by his side. Michael was born November 5, 1948 in Hartford to Eugene and Colleen (Giles) Bixler. Raised in Manchester he graduated from East Catholic H.S. in 1966, and from Eastern CT State College in 1976. He was employed as a Computer Specialist by Aetna Ins. Co. and worked there for 20 years. After an early retirement, he realized a life long dream and moved to Costa Rica where he built a home, and enjoyed surfing and long walks on the beach, as well as playing chess and reading. His ashes will be scattered along his favorite beach. Besides his wife, Ruth, Michael is survived by his parents, Eugene and Colleen Bixler of Glastonbury; his sister Janet; his brother Steven and sister-in-law, Beverly. Also his stepsons, William and Aaron Wood. His brother, Paul predeceased him. A special thanks to Dr. Carlos Zuniga Salas who was of great help all through Michaels' battle with bladder cancer. Michael will be greatly missed by his family and his extended family of friends. A memorial Mass for Michael will be celebrated at a later date. For online memorials please visit www.courant.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Bixler
cindy castiglioni
September 5, 2006
Steven-
I just recently heard about Michael's death from my mother...
I am so sorry...
It is obvious that he was an amazing man and a cherished husband who will be missed by everyone who knew him...My deepest sympathy to you and your family..
Cindy
Linda Brown
December 19, 2005
Ruth,
I had the honor to call you both my friends. I started to come to Costa Rica 9 years ago and we became friends. It was always the two of you together and getting to enjoy the visual paradise of Costa Rica. Watching the two of you build your dream home on the hillside, next to the rustling of the large bamboo near-by with the monkeys never far away. You both worked hard and Ruth you stayed by Micheal for his dream. To lose someone like Micheal is a large hole in your life. It cannot be filled, but just moved around and honor his presence that when he was on this world. I fondly remember wonderful in depth conversations on all topics with Micheal and always looked forward to seeing him. The visual of the beach in Manuel Antonio will not be the same with Micheal not being there deeply concentrating on his next move in a chess game. Micheal I miss you and hope you heard Ruth's words when I called to tell you good-by. Ruth, you know I understand what you are going through, remember to breathe and to search out positive things in your life. I love you both. Linda Brown
VINCENT & GLORIA DIANA
November 9, 2005
COLLEN & GENE & FAMILY
WE'VE BEEN IN ARIZONA AND JUST HEARD OF MICHAEL'S DEATH...WE SEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY .OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL AT THIS TIME OF SORROW VINCENT GLORIA
peter vineberg
November 8, 2005
Any man would be proud to have a wife as attentive, caring, loving and supportive as you were to Michael, you did it with grace and dignity, to the very end. Via con Dios Michael, will miss seing you playing chess on the beach with David, you know more now than any of us here on this plain, and I'm sure there is no lack of chess partners there where you are now.Peace is yours now, youve' earned your rest. Will probably see you when I get over there myself, hope I have the courage and dignity to face death as you did.
Ruth Bixler
November 7, 2005
Miguel,
Todo tu peticions todas terminado.
Buen Viaje! :)
Siempre, tu esposa Ruthie
Mary Rielly (McNamara)
November 6, 2005
Dear Auntie Colleen and Uncle Gene,
I am so sorry to hear of Michael's passing. I cannot imagine the sadness you are feeling. I hope that knowing how many people's lives he touched and affected brings comfort to you in the days ahead. Please know that you are all in my prayers.
a friend
November 6, 2005
Happy birthday to uuuuuuuuu
Happy birthday to uuuuuuuuuuu
Happy birthday dear michaelllllll
Happy birthday to uuuuuuuuuuu.....
Sandra Frost, R.N.
November 6, 2005
Dear Ruthie,
I am now living in a small town called Destruction Bay, in the Yukon. It's very hard to get through on the net so I am sending this to you and want you to publish it for me in Michael's Guest Book. Siempre, Sandra
Ruth,
I know exactly what you have gone through not only with Michael's death but also with his very long illness. You were a pillar of strength to him, Ruthie and his family should thank their ever loving lucky stars that you were there to care for him until the very end. Not only did you selflessly care for him, you provided him with all the love and tenderness anyone could ever wish for when the end is near. You gave him comfort, joy, love, tenderness and kindness. I know it wasn't always easy and I'm sure there were days when you just felt like throwing in the towel, but you didn't. You hung on until the very end and gave him the courage and strength to complete his final journey. We are all proud of you, Ruthie, and we are all thankful that you were there to honor Michael's wishes. We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful gem in our little circle of friends.
As my husband, Pierre, said: "We should all be so lucky to have someone like Ruth with us in the end. Michael was indeed a truly fortunate man."
I am sure he realized that Ruth, I only hope that you too will see this someday soon.........
My heart is always with you, my dear friend. I will see you soon in Quepos....In the meantime...Keep the faith.
Siempre, Sandra
Richard & Ana Sutton
November 5, 2005
Dearest Ruth,
Although we have already personally shared our sadness and condolences with you, we were so glad that a friend let us know about this forum so that we could go “on the record”. Quepos – Manuel Antonio, and for that matter the world, is a little smaller and a little less friendly with Michael’s passing. He was, without doubt, one of the good people. His quiet, friendly, unassuming and intelligent demeanor was a refreshing and always welcome part of the whole of our community. He will be missed around here for some time to come. We pray that you will find a way to continue on your journey. We are confident that our dear friend Michael has begun again, and is looking down on all of us - most especially you, his partner of 30 years. Que Dios lo acompana. Richard and Ana. Publishers, Quepolandia – the English language guide to Quepos-Manuel Antonio since 1998.
VERA JONES
November 5, 2005
NOVEMBER 5, 2005
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHAEL!
We are thinking of you and trusting your spirit to guide you well on your new path.
Your loving, caring wife, Ruth, is taking care that all you wanted to be done is being done. That is not news to you I am sure. She was steadfast in loving and caring for you and she is not done yet.
From time to time, let all of us know you are looking down here and smiling at us as we continue to chase nonexistant rainbows.
Save me a place!
Hugs, Vera Jones and Staff
Dos Locos Restaurant
Quepos, Costa Rica
Richard Bloom
November 5, 2005
Dear Ruth,
I woke up today thinking about Michael. I always remember the fifth of November and today was no different. He and I had a long and wonderful relationship. He was always an interesting character and
we shared many good times together. I hope you are ok and that we will talk when you return to the states.
judy gilweit
November 4, 2005
ruth,
so sorry for your loss. michael will be missed by all his friends. but know that he lived and died doing what he wanted in the place he loved. take comfort in knowing you gave him the care and support he needed. you were always there for him.
be strong.
love, judy and ryder
judy and thomas lata
November 3, 2005
Ruthie,
In this beautiful New England autumn, we are again reminded of the fragility and impermanence of our humanity. Michael has passed into the great unknown, but before he left, he lived his dream. Take comfort that you were a big part of that dream.You were his best friend, an ever-faithful and loving partner. It was you who comforted him, you who stood by him through his darkest hours. He was blessed to have you. Life will change now. Be inspired to go on and live it as he wanted you to.
Loving wishes, Judy and Thomas
Bill's Friends at Werthan
November 3, 2005
Ruth,
We're sorry to hear about your loss.
Our deepest sympathies go out to you during this difficult time. Best Regards.
Juan, Desiree, and Oliver Sanchez-Brassert
November 2, 2005
Dear Ruth, we have always felt blessed by your and Miguel's friendship. So many fond memories will remain in our hearts forever. We treasure those shared moments and wish that there had been more. We have not only lost our dear friend, but also our most valued chess opponent. May your kindness and your courage help you through these times of trials.
Ginette Rousseau
November 1, 2005
Dear Ruth,
Please accept my deapest sympathy for your loss. I know you have been a loving and caring wife and companion for Michael, and this even in the most difficult moments. I wish you peace within you and courage to go on with your life.
Sandi welch
November 1, 2005
Ruth, Pat and I know how hard the last few months have been for you. You gave your heart and soul keeping Michaelcomfortable right up to the end. Maybe now both of you will have the peace you so much deserve. we are there for you whenever you need us. With Love, Sandi & Pat
Betsy DiQuattro
November 1, 2005
Dear Ruth,
Your love and devotion to Michael has been so evident and he was truly blessed to have you by his side. May he be at peace and may you find continued courage and strength.
Love,
Betsy
P.S. Lucinda sends her sympathy as well.
Ralph Mac Donald
November 1, 2005
Dear Ruth,
Friendships like the ones that we've made with you and Michael give our lives true wealth. Your loss is also ours. Our warmest thoughts are with you now..
Ralph Mac Donald and the "Toronto crew"
LORENA AND ROBERT CLARK
November 1, 2005
There is only a handful of very special people in this town and we are very sad to have lost one of them. Michael Bixler was an exceptional friend and human being and we treasure all the wonderful memories of the time we spent together.
We pray to God that his lovely and very special wife of 30 years, our dear friend Ruth will always remember that "we only die when we are forgotten"...
Robert and I will never forget !!!
Sabine & Hans Wehnemann
November 1, 2005
Dear Ruth,
our deepest condolences from Sabine , Hans, Nina & Jana. Everybody here misses Michael, we are sorry for your lost, but remember that he will always be in your heart and you will always have friends here who are with you if you need them.
We love you
Susan Mundy
October 31, 2005
Ruth,
My deepest sympathies to you and your family. Here is a thought I hope you find some solice in...
Death is only tragic to those who remain behind to view it.
To the one who dies it is a wonderous flight home.
With Love, Susan and everyone at VM.
Dorothy Brown
October 31, 2005
Dearest Ruth
Bruce and I are very sad for your loss. I know that you and Mike spent many great times together in Costa Rica and I know that he was so happy that you were there for him always, especially in these last days,I'm sure having his love with him at the end made it easier for him. The pain will fade but the love you two shared will always be there, nothing can take that away. Remember all the good times and take care of yourself.
Love
Dot
Kim Harmon
October 31, 2005
Dear Ruth,
I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your wonderful husband Micheal. You were a wonderful and loving wife of 30 years. He will always be remembered in in our hearts. We are here for you Ruth in your time of sorrow.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Kim Harmon
lance and letty bennett
October 31, 2005
Our heartfelt condolences to Michael's wife Ruth. They both are dearly loved here in Quepos, and Michael will be very much missed. Lance and Letty
Rick & Wayne Little & Anderson
October 31, 2005
Ruth,
Our hearts go out to you along with our prayers during this time. Both you and Michael always shared your joy and love with us whenever we saw you during our living in Costa Rica. You both are a blessing to the world. Ruth, your smile will ALWAYS light up a room and a soul.
We love you.
Rick & Wayne
Jeff Schultz
October 31, 2005
Dearest Ruth,
Was so sorry to hear that Michael had passed away. After seeing him in Quepos a few months ago, and taking to him, it is impossible to believe he is gone. I know he loved you very much. You need to stay strong now like he knew you would. You will always have my love & support in your time of need.
Love,
Jeff
Larry Schultz
October 31, 2005
Dear Ruth,
We are so very sorry for your loss.It doesn't seem possible for Michael to be gone. It was only seven months ago that we were having dinner with him. He was a wonderful man & friend. I know he loved you very much. You are in our thoughts & prayers every day.
Love,
Larry & Dee
Nancy Taupier
October 31, 2005
To Ruth and the Bixler family. I'm very sorry to hear of your loss. I was a friend of Mike's from the Aetna. He was a good friend and will be missed.
Aaron Wood
October 30, 2005
Ruth (Mom),
Sarah, Jake, Matthew, our extended family and I send our love and sympathy to you in your time of loss. We all know how important you were to each other and that the love you share will always carry you through all of life's hardships. You have the loving support of all of your family to help you as well. Mike will be missed by those whose lives he touched.
Bill Wood
October 30, 2005
Mom (Ruth)
Our hearts go out to you in this time of loss.I know what Mike meant to you and how much you truly love him.Time may make the pain more bearable and the loss easier to live with.But I don't believe it will ever cause the love you have for Mike diminish.
Love Billy & Family
Carol Anderson
October 28, 2005
Dear Mr.& Mrs.Bixler,& Steven & Bev & family,
Our sincere sympathy to you at this time. We are sorry to hear about Michael and pray for comfort & peace for you all.
Our love, Jay & Carol Anderson
John Berk
October 28, 2005
Steve, Even though many years have elasped since our school days, I was saddened to read about the passing of your brother Michael. I offer my sincere condolences to you, Janet, your Mom & Dad and the rest of the family at this time of sorrow.
Ruth Bixler
October 28, 2005
Hello everyone. It's Ruth, Michael's wife. I want to thank all of you for your kind words. I especially want to thank all the old Shaboo Inn people who have been calling me here in Quepos = just to chat and see how I am doing. You can reach me at the email address listed. Again, thanks = Ruth
John Golon
October 27, 2005
To Ruth & the Bixler family my condolences at your loss. Mike was a good friend during our years at Aetna both in and out of work. Mike lived a full life and I was pleased to see he managed his way to Costa Rico where so many of his good times were spent. Sincerely!
Bill Hickey/Karen Owen
October 27, 2005
Steve, Bev and family:
Karen and I are so sorry for the loss of your brother/brother-in-law.
Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers--God Bless
Jane Petitpas
October 27, 2005
Colleen & Gene. I read all of the messages about Michael and hope the memory all his friends have of him will help ease your sorry.
Love, Jane
Rick Martin
October 27, 2005
To Mike's Family I wish to express my deepest condolences on Mike's passing. Mike was my best friend in high school. We had good times together. Mike was in my wedding party when I married. Even though we lost track over the years I always thought of him. Even though I am saddend by his passing I can smile that he was able to live his dream. That's the Bones that I knew. I will miss him
Rhoda Leber-Owren
October 27, 2005
My condolences to Mr and Mrs. Bixler and Michael's family. I knew "Boney" for many years and he always made all his friends smile. Mike was a classmate of mine at East Catholic. What a legacy for him live his life long dream in living in a area we can only dream of. Miss ya.
larry stokes
October 26, 2005
mike was a good friend in college. traveled and lost track. a nice guy.
richard smith
October 26, 2005
I will always have fond memories of Michael. His warm smile and infectious good heartedness was far reaching. God bless you Michael from one of the Willimantic boys!
Sue Anne Ward
October 26, 2005
Steve, Bev & family:
I am so sorry for your loss. Having lost my brother (the same age) this year, I know that with every passing holiday and birthday you will feel such a great void. Bernie sends his regards. Think of you often.
The Wards
Ranny Syphers
October 26, 2005
My maiden name is Lata. We lived across the street from you at Crystal Lake, many years ago. My mom & dad (Dru & John) are gone now, but I remember you well. I am so sorry for your loss.
Darlene Sweeney-Solomson
October 26, 2005
Dear Stephen, Bev and the whole Bixler Family,
We were very sorry to hear about Michael. Our sincere condolences to the whole family. Michael was a really nice guy.
Sincerely,
Ray and Darlene-Sweeney Solomson
Judy (Pendergast)Tourangeau
October 26, 2005
I wish to extend my sincere sympathy to the Bixler family and to Michaels family. I have many fond memories of the times I spent at The Bixler Home back on Benton Street. God Bless you all and Michael too.
Ann Kwash-Zajchowski
October 26, 2005
Michael was a dear friend and classmate from East Catholic. His wonderful sense of humor and great smile will always be remembered.
Doreen Anderson
October 26, 2005
Steven, Bev, Mr. & Mrs. Bixler,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Michael. He was a funny, funny guy. I will never forget our four years together at East Catholic!
My heartfelt sympathies in this, your time of grief.
Sincerely,
Doreen Sweeney Anderson
Paul Bavier
October 26, 2005
Michael was one of my first friends at East Catholic. I am saddened to hear of his passing. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.
Lynda and Steve Campbell
October 26, 2005
Dear Steve and Bev and family,
Our sincere condolences on the loss of Michael.
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