John Wixson Obituary

Wixson
JOHN STILLMAN WIXSON
September 21, 1931 April 27, 2020
John was born in a farm community near Petoskey, Michigan. He graduated from Petoskey High School in 1950 and within a few months enlisted in the Air Force. His assignments took him to Korea, Japan, Germany, and Vietnam. His many military decorations included the Bronze Star, Meritorious Service and Air Force Commendation Medals.
In 1954, John was assigned to Reese AFB, Lubbock, TX. This is where he met Gloria M. Scroggs, the love of his life. They were married in 1955 and celebrated 55 years of marriage before Gloria's passing. During their years together they raised a family of 4 and traveled. Their travels included destinations in the US and World. They pulled a travel trailer through the majority of 48 states and visited family. World travels included Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Mexico, and Canada.
After serving 20 years in the AF, he retired in order to obtain his teaching degree from Southern Colorado State College. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in 1972, he taught Industrial Arts at Carmel Jr. High. In 1981, John earned a Master of Arts from the University of Southern Colorado. In order to prepare students for the 21st century, John changed the whole structure for teaching Industrial Arts into Tech-ED. This new curriculum brought computers to the "shop" and included modules in electronics, robotics, and rocketry. His teaching philosophy began with education should be enjoyable and school should be a happy place.
Following his second retirement, John enjoyed fishing, bicycling, flying RC airplanes, walking, traveling, visiting neighbors, sharing witty jokes, and making others laugh. He volunteered as a driver for Silver Key for 10 years with the belief of giving back and contributing to society. Many friends would seek him for help with home projects and repairs. He was always there to assist and help, often coming up with ingenious solutions. John credited his many accomplishments to his wife, Gloria. In his written memoirs of his life he stated, "I could not have accomplished what I did or enjoyed life without her." "Ah, What a life!"
John is survived by son Steven (Charlotte) Wixson, daughters Theresa Schrock and Kelly Wixson, granddaughter Nichole (Robert) DeWare, grandsons Kevin (Christina) Wixson, Matthew Wixson, and Sean Schrock, great grandson Jacob Swain. He was predeceased by his wife Gloria Wixson, son Michael Wixson, and great grandson Gabriel Meyers.
Donations can be made to Silver Key silverkey.org or Kids on Bikes kidsonbikes.net in his honor.