John R. Bixby, 74, of Milan, passed away on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at his home. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made in care of the family. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Milan is assisting the family. 

John was born on September 12, 1946 in Davenport, the son of Russell and Phyllis Bixby. He graduated from Rock Island High School in 1964 and then went on to serve 4 years in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He married Mary Price on February 8, 1969 in Rock Island. John was a supervisor for many years at International Harvester Farmall Works in Rock Island and later for Atlas Energy Company in East Moline, retiring in 2006.

John enjoyed nature and often went hiking and fishing. He also enjoyed cruising in his boat with his wife, Mary. He was especially proud of his volunteer work at Wildcat Den State Park in Muscatine, where he helped in the restoration of the 1848 Pine Creek Grist Mill.

Survivors include his wife, Mary; children, Jenny (Kirk) Pattison of Rock Island, William (Mindy) Bixby of Des Moines, IA; grandchildren Aaron (Amanda) McCombs, Aubrianna Bixby, Alexzandria (John) Ramirez, Alyssa Bixby and Kale Pattison; great-grandchildren, Ethan, William “Little Bill” and Cruz; sisters, Cheryl and Renee Bixby.

John was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Connie Duffy.

Online condolences may be left for the family at wheelanpressly.com.