March 10, 2026 at 4:50 p.m.
Paul Raymond Bixler, 77, Columbus (formerly of Hope)
By Norman Funeral Home
Paul Raymond Bixler, 77, passed away on March 10, 2026. He was born on April 6, 1948 in Columbus, Indiana to Thomas G. and Marjorie M. (Adams) Bixler.
He was a 1966 graduate of Columbus High School and was employed by Cummins, Inc. for 30 years.
Paul grew up on a farm near Hope, Indiana and enjoyed raising crops and livestock. He could drive any type of equipment and even tried his hand at flying, until his first solo flight made him realize he was more comfortable on the ground.
Paul retired at age 49 and took the opportunity to enjoy life. He bought a motor coach and traveled extensively. In addition, he particularly enjoyed going on cruises with friends and visiting the many ports of call. He also enjoyed gardening and going to auctions.
Paul had a wry sense of humor and a knack for clever retorts, always followed by a mischievous smile. Many of his humorous comments are memorable. He was a good friend to many and those closest to him gave him nicknames like Bix, Pauly and Huggy Bear.
He was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren and would take any available opportunity to enthusiastically discuss their accomplishments.
Paul’s memberships included the Bartholomew County Landlord Association, Columbus Moose Lodge, the Hope Masonic Lodge and he was also a Murat Shriner.
He is survived by his companion, Mary Ann Davidson of Columbus and children Tim Bixler (Georgia) of Carmel, IN and Brandie Bixler (Victor Buquer) of Martinsville, IN. He is also survived by grandchildren Alexandra Bixler (New York, NY), Teagan Bixler (Indianapolis, IN) and Adex Bixler (Franklin, IN). Also surviving Paul are sisters Janet (Bill) Mings of Scipio, Sue (Bob) Barr of Columbus and Hope Bixler of Greensburg.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved younger brother, David, and an infant sister, Helen.
Funeral services will be held at Norman Funeral Home in Hope, Indiana with burial at Hope Moravian Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, March 16, 2026, with a Masonic service and funeral service immediately following,
Memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
