Lillie Ann Bixler

Lillie Ann Bixler, born on November 14, 1934, passed away on January 25, 2024, at the age of 89. She was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many and will always be remembered for her kind heart, gentle nature, and unwavering love for her family. 

Lillie Ann was born in Kellerton, Iowa to her parents Joseph and Pauline Allen. She grew up in a close-knit family and had many fond memories of spending time with her siblings playing “Red Rover”. 

After completing her education at Des Moines’ East High School, Lillie Ann started working as a receptionist for a family physician and quickly established herself as a respected and dedicated professional. She was known for her attention to detail, her strong work ethic, and her ability to connect with co-workers on a personal level. After many years of dedication, Lillie Ann retired from EMC Insurance in March 1997 

Lillie Ann met the love of her life, Jimmy, when on a blind date set up by mutual friends. They were married on January 12, 1957, and together they raised 4 boys, James Brian, Jeffrey Allen, David Craig, and Douglas Keith. She was a devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother who always put her family first. She took great pride in her family’s accomplishments and was always there to offer support and guidance. 

In her free time, Lillie Ann attended countless events to watch her children and grandchildren participate in show choir, drama, baseball, football, track & field, and gymnastics.  Lillie Ann also spent many years volunteering as a den mother, Pack 25 Den 5, for the local chapter of the Cub Scouts of America. Lillie Ann was a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs and enthusiastically cheered them on to become World Series Champions in 2016. The Cubs were not the only pro sports team Lillie Ann enjoyed watching. Nearly every Sunday in the fall, Lillie Ann would be in front of the television watching Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs win Super Bowls.   

Lillie Ann’s cooking was legendary, and she was known for her delicious homemade meals that she would share with family and friends. Any visitor to the Bixler home during mealtime was graciously invited to join the family for dinner. Lillie Ann wouldn’t have it any other way and the response of “No Thank You” was never accepted at Lillie Ann’s table. She fondly accepted everyone. 

Lillie Ann is survived by her sister Nancy Rauh, brothers Charles Allen (Joann) and David Allen (Betty), her sons James (Charlotte), Jeffrey, David, and Douglas, her grandchildren Sara (Jeremy), Amy (Brandon), Jonathan (Venessa), Jordan (Adam), Kyle, and Miranda, and her great-grandchildren Abby – 21, Lauren – 18, Olivia – 16, Wyatt – 14, Alec – 12, Walker – 12, Cooper – 11, Braxton – 9, Sydnie – 9, Kikue – 8, Thunder – 6, McKenna – 5, Korra – 5, Veronica – 5, and Kinsley – 3. Lillie Ann’s memory will live on through the countless lives she touched during her time on earth. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 4:00 p.m., followed by a celebration of life visitation gathering from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., both at Ernst Funeral Home, Waukee. The memorial service will be live-streamed and can be viewed at service time or anytime thereafter by visiting: facebook.com/ernstfuneralcremation.