Daniel Leroy Bixenman was born on October 12, 1950, in Denver, CO. At
age five, Dan found himself in St. Joseph’s Orphanage in El Dorado, KS
with his siblings. In 1958, he and his three siblings were adopted by
Bob and Mary Helen Bixenman. That was his introduction to farm life, on
the family place near Levant, KS. The remaining years of Dan’s life
would be centered in and around Thomas County.
Dan spent time in the service, both in the United States Navy and
Air Force, but always returned home. It was a full life he lived in
Northwest Kansas. He worked as a farm hand and a harvest hand for
several local farmers. He worked for the railroad and on oil rigs. He
also painted houses. Dan had one short marriage and a longer deep
friendship with his ex-wife. Dan became sober and at his death had been
30+ years sober.
Dan ultimately found his home at Sacred Heart Parish, in Colby. He
worked in the Parish for years, both in the school and in the church.
Parish life was a touchstone for him. The Parish supported and cared for
him, and in turn, he made important contributions to the Parish.
Dan died peacefully on Thursday morning, April 13, 2023, at the age of
72. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Mary Helen and his
sister Pauline. He is survived by his sister Maureen; his brother Louis;
numerous cousins and many good friends.
The family will receive friends from 4-6:00 p.m., with a Vigil at 6:00
p.m. Sunday, April 16, 2023, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby. A Memorial
Mass will take place at 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 17, 2023, at Sacred
Heart Catholic Church, Colby, with inurnment in the church cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Parish and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences, visit baalmannmortuary.com.