Phyllis J. Bixler

Our beloved mother, Phyllis J. Bixler passed away March 16, 2011. She was born on a ranch in Harrison, Nebraska to Jack and Bertha Eberspecher Parsons on February 2, 1923. She was the oldest of five girls. She married Charles Kenneth Bixler in 1948. They were involved in ranching, banking, and Ranch-Way Feeds. They had three children, Robert H. Bixler, deceased, Bonnie Bixler Szidon, Kim and Joe K. Bixler. She has three grandchildren, Nolan Bixler, Scott Bixler and Jackie Bixler. Our beloved mother was highly intelligent and loved life. She was an avid reader, loved business, and loved living in Colorado. She loved music, art, and animals. She loved her cat and dog. She loved her home and yard of 44 years on Newsom Street. She was a strong advocate of women's rights. She was very family oriented, and her sisters were her best friends. Her sisters are Connie S. Nicholas of Dillon, Montana, and Jackie Fullerton of Rapid City, South Dakota. Sister, Lois M. Sturman of Cheyenne, Wyoming passed away in 2008 and sister, Bonnie Lou passed away in infancy. After World War II, Phyllis and her sister Lois served as office assistants for the United States Army Occupation Forces in Heidelberg, Germany. This experience was a highlight of her life. Phyllis Bixler was the President of Ranch-Way Feeds. And here are some of her thoughts to share: "If I had to explain what has enabled Ranch-Way Feeds to become a leading manufacturer of animal nutrition in the Rocky Mountain Region, I would have to credit the success to the "Free Enterprise System" of this wonderful country. For 143 years there has been a milling business at the present site of our Fort Collins, Colorado plant. Although devastated by fire, market reversals and financial shortcomings, someone who believed in the American dream has always been willing to roll up their sleeves and start over. Today, the people who make up Ranch-Way Feeds have that same strong desire to keep the dream alive. With the support of our loyal customers, our investment in quality products, services and people, we believe this vision will continue to unfold. May your prosperity only be surpassed by your happiness." Phyllis J. Bixler, President, Ranch-Way Feed Mills Donations may be made in Phyllis Bixler's name to the Larimer Humane Society, 5137 S. College, Fort Collins, CO 80525. A memorial service and lunch will be held at 11:00 a.m. April 16, 2011 at the Hilton Fort Collins, 425 W. Prospect Road.