MANCHESTER — The township police department is mourning the loss of retired Officer Howard “John” Bixler, a longtime member of the department whose career in public service spanned decades.
Bixler, 78, died Thursday, January 15. He served Manchester Township residents from 1971 until his retirement in the mid-1990s, holding assignments as a patrolman, detective and sergeant.
Department officials said he earned widespread respect for his professionalism and dedication to duty.
Before entering law enforcement, Bixler served in the United States Air Force, where he worked as an air operations specialist overseas, continuing a lifelong commitment to service.
According to Bixler’s obituary, he was a lifelong New Jersey resident – born in Neptune and raised in Wall Township. He later made his home in Toms River, where family said he enjoyed dining out and spending time with his grandchildren in retirement.
He was predeceased by his parents, Howard Emerson Bixler and Rosalie K. Ruegg, and a cousin. Survivors include his sons, Michael Bixler of Island Heights and Brian Bixler of Virginia, along with five grandchildren and extended family members.
A private service will be held at the Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery.
Arrangements are being handled by Quinn Hopping Funeral Home.
