SPARTA – Don W. Bixby, 81, of Sparta, IL, formerly of Steeleville, passed away Wednesday, December 8, 2021, at Freeburg Care Center, in Freeburg, IL.

Don was born April 15, 1940, in Roanoke, VA, to Willard H. and Helen Bogan Bixby. He married Sara Hungerford on March 21, 1981 at United Methodist Church, Mt. Vernon, IL, and was a member of First United Methodist Church of Sparta, IL. Don was a U.S. Army Veteran. He was President/CEO of American Device Manufacturing Company, Steeleville, IL, a family-owned business for forty-three years. He then worked with Dorma for four years until retirement. Don enjoyed golfing, (with a four handicap), and playing the tuba with community bands. He was a volunteer assistant coach at Sparta High School for the golf team for over twenty years and established the Bixby Golf Scholarship.

Don is survived by his wife of forty years, Sara Bixby of Freeburg, IL, sons: Don A. (Brandy) Bixby of Steeleville, IL, David A. (Rhonda) Bixby of Chester, IL; six grandchildren: Hayden Bixby, Aspen Bixby, Sydney Bixby, Joshua (Brittany) Kumke, Chelsy Kumke, Alex (Hunter) House; four great grandchildren: Aubree Kumke, Brynlee Kumke, Bohdi Helmers, Callyn House; special niece, Tomi (Tom) Diefenbach of Sparta, MO, and great nephews, Ryan and Casey.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Jon Bixby, and one great granddaughter, Rhonny McCormick.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, December 11, 2021, at First United Methodist Church, Sparta, with Reverend Randy McGeehon officiating. Burial to follow at Paradise Cemetery, Steeleville. Visitation will be at the church, where friends may call from   11 am - 1 pm. Memorials may be given to the donors preferred form of remembrance. To sign the guestbook, visit www.wilsonsfuneralhome.net . Due to executive orders, current COVID guidelines will be followed.