Joan Rebecca Bixler

Bixler, Joan R. Age 93, of Columbia Heights, passed away Sept. 18, 2023. Survived by her loving family: son, Gordon, Jr. and daughter, Joanie Anderson; grandson, Andy (Mandy) Bixler; step-grandson, Mike Anderson; sister, Helen (Tom) Dunlap of Dallas, TX; nephews, Scott (Katie) and Chip (Sonja) Dunlap; niece, Susan (Greg) Bratt; 7 great nieces/nephew; 3 great-great niece/nephews; beloved cat, Pete; and many friends. Preceded in death by her parents, James and Elizabeth Dean; infant brother, Earl; husband, Gordon, Sr.; son-in-law, Randy Anderson. Joan Rebecca Dean was born on Nov. 20, 1929, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. By age 11, she knew she wanted to be a nurse and by 14, she was working at a hospital. In 1947, she started a 5-year program at the University of Pittsburgh, graduating in 1952, with her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. She was so proud to be an RN specializing in Psychiatric Nursing and began her career at Western Psychiatric Hospital in Pittsburgh. She was a child prodigy at whistling and at 19, professional whistler, Fred Lowery, heard her and asked her to join him as part of his road show, but she declined. Nursing was her dream and she continued to whistle throughout her life, performing at many events. In 1953, Joan married the love of her life, Gordon and they started their family with Gordon, Jr. and Joanie. In 1962, Gordon got a job in Minnesota and the family moved to Columbia Heights. In 1966, Joan was hired as an RN at the newly built Unity Hospital. "Bix" loved working in the Emergency Room for 15+ years and was then asked to help start the new Mental Health unit. She retired from Unity in 1987. Joan gained a step-grandson, Mike Anderson, when Gordon, Jr., got married. Then, grandson, Andy, was born in 1985. Due to many circumstances, Joan and Gordon gained custody of 18-month old Andy and began the journey of raising him. He was their pride and joy. Then, in 1995, after nearly 43 years of marriage, Gordon passed away of cancer. Joan and Andy moved to Blaine, where they lived for the next 16 years. In 2011, Joan moved back to Columbia Heights, where she lived until the last few weeks of her life. Joan also worked for 11 years as a full-time Hostess at the St. Anthony Baker's Square Restaurant, until she was 80! She was adored by her customers and co-workers. She was a 61-year member of Community United Methodist Church in Columbia Heights, that recently merged with Faith United Methodist Church. Joan was a beautiful, caring person who will be dearly missed and remain in the hearts of all those who knew and loved her. We have comfort knowing she's with her Savior and loved ones who have passed before her. Always with a positive attitude, she powered through many health issues over the years, but now has no limitations and is sharing her big smile, big hugs and whistling with the Angels. Funeral Service on Friday, Oct. 6, 11:00 AM, at Faith United Methodist Church, 2708 33rd Ave NE, St. Anthony. Visitation Thursday, 4:00-7:00 PM, Hillside Chapel, 2610 19th Ave NE, Minneapolis; and 1 hour prior to the service at church. Private Interment Hillside Cemetery. Memorials to family preferred. Washburn-McReavy.com Hillside Chapel 612-781-1999

Tributes

Joan Rebecca Bixler

November 20, 1929 - September 18, 2023

Tributes

Joan Rebecca Bixler

November 20, 1929 - September 18, 2023

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