David Bixler

Dave grew up in Saranac Lake. He graduated from Saranac Lake High School. He lived in Bennington and Nashua, New Hampshire for many years.

His passion was working with children, especially those with special needs. Dave worked with kids through adventure-based learning like skiing, hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. He was always coming up with unique and creative ways to support the needs of a child. He was also proud of assisting his students in the Special Olympics. Dave worked at Mountain Lake Academy in Lake Placid. He worked for Crotched Mountain School in Greenfield, New Hampshire and Easterseals School in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Dave was an avid golfer and kayaker. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle on warm summer days. Dave always had a book in hand, or a camera, and loved listening to music. There was always a concert, NASCAR race or sporting event he was going to. Dave was never one to turn down a good adventure. He also loved animals and had many beloved pets over the years. His laugh and smile were infectious. Dave would never do anything halfway and would go the extra mile to help others. He would always put others first. If there was something you needed, Dave would get it for you. His kindness, generosity and caring nature touched everyone around him. He was truly a selfless man who made a difference in the world around him. Dave’s devotion to his family and friends was unmatched. A few of his favorite sayings were “that’s my favorite” and “love.” Dave filled everyone’s life with love.

Dave was predeceased by his stepfather, George (Garry) Hilling and father-in-law, Bernard Cote. He is survived by his parents Warren D. Bixler and Patricia (Sullivan) Hilling (Jay Law), partner Jennifer McFadden (children Thomas, Emlyn and Jordyn), mother in-law Barbara Cote, brothers Pat (Cherise) and Eryle (Andrea), stepsisters Angie Kivel (Kris) and Cori Syring (Matt), nephews Patrick, Jon, Liam, Declan and Paxton and step nieces Taylor, Karmin and Londyn. Dave also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins and lifelong friends.

Services will be held on Saturday, April 26 at the Presbyterian Church, 57 Church Street, Saranac Lake, at 6 p.m. There will also be a celebration of life on June 22 in Nashua, New Hampshire.

Contributions may be made to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society in Saranac Lake or Easterseals School in Manchester, New Hampshire.