Anna Marie Bixler, a lifelong member of the Bradley Indian Mission, died Sunday, Jan. 11, after a lengthy illness. She was 78.
Born in Grand Rapids on Dec. 17, 1947,she lived a life rich in love, resilience, and adventure. The steadfast heart of her family, Anna devoted 59 years to her husband, Dwight, and fostered deep bonds with her three children, Allen (Sam) Bixler, Mitzi (Charlies) Sessions and Lillian (Cody) DeKoning.
Anna’s journey was as vibrant as the gardens she tended to with so much care. Known for her spicy spirit, she triumphed over a myriad of medical challenges, including thirteen and a half years post-lung transplant.
Anna loved her church, Bradley Indian Mission Many knew her as “Sister.” She became like family with many after the passing of her mother Lillian, in 1955, as the community helped raise her in the following years.
A proud graduate of Wayland Union Schools, Anna dedicated a significant part of her career to the same institution, where she later retired from in 2006. She was also known by many from her time at Kessler’s in Wayland.
Beyond her professional life, she loved spending her time gardening, tending her cows and farm chores, kayaking, and camping that were often accompanied by the family and life long friends. She completed her “bucket list” with her daughter.
Her spirit was inspired with a fascination for nature, and she held a special fondness for hummingbirds and turtles. To her loved ones, she was fondly nicknamed “Spicy Anna Banana,” representing the zest she infused into every moment and her outlook at overcoming life challenges.
She is survived by her husband, Dwight, her children, grandchildren and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with her.
She now joins the spirits of her mother, Lillian Rose; father, Paul; and siblings, Paul, Ben, Leon, Eugene, Charlie, and Marcaline.
A celebration of life is planned for July, 2026. Details will be forthcoming.
Donations in Anna’s memory can be made to Bradley Indian Mission or Faith Hospice.
