Michael D. Bixler's Obituary
Michael Bixler was born in Hanover, PA in 1950 and raised in Largo, FL from 1956 with his family. He attended Fuguitt Elementary and graduated from Largo High School in 1969. He learned about construction from his father and then proceeded to earn a degree in Construction Engineering from the University of Houston. He went on to obtain his contractor license in the State of Florida, which launched a career with the Pinellas County Building Dept. He retired after 26 years of service with the county: his projects included overseeing the 354 acre Walsingham Park, 163 acre Eagle Lake Park, and many other projects.
Michael greatly enjoyed sports and military history. He was an avid supporter of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Florida Gators. He was a honorary member of the 29th Division Assoc. Post 48 of Westminster, MD - whom he traveled with to Normandy, France in 2017.
However, his true passion in life was bowling. Michael was a tournament level bowler and a member of the American Bowling Congress. He shared this pastime with his grandchildren in their youth, and he was known countywide for his love of the game.
Michael was preceded in death by his Parents, Helen & Arthur Bixler, and his three brothers Russell Cofiell, Dennis Cofiell, and Douglas Bixler.
He is survived by his daughter Christy Ridgeway (Reggie) of Clearwater, FL; Grandchildren Heather Casey (Travis) of Dallas, TX and Kyle Ridgeway of Clearwater, FL; Sisters Bonita Bixler of Homosassa, FL, Linda Johnson of Crystal River, FL, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
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