Robert Lee Nix Jr

Robert L. Nix, Jr. 83, a lifelong resident of Madera passed away, on Sunday, June 14, 2020 at Madera Community Hospital.

Robert was born to Robert and Lyla Stefanelli Nix in Madera where he grew up on the family dairy farm in the Dixieland area of rural Madera County. Robert graduated with the Class of 1955 of Madera Union High School and later went into farming row crops, retiring following 65 years in agriculture. In earlier years he enjoyed hunting and fishing. Being a part of the well known Stefanelli family of Madera he had a large extended family which included members of the Montanari and Martin familes. The businesses they operated are big part of the history of Madera with such recognizable names as the Big Top Drive In, Valley Market Grocery Store, Monty’s Liquor, Reed and Bell Drive in, and Stefanelli Distributing.

Robert was married to his beloved wife Joan Laron “Ronnie” Qualls for 60 years until her passing in January of this year.

Robert is survived by his nephews: Jarrod Qualls, Timothy John Qualls, Andrew Qualls, Brian Qualls and Brett Qualls; one niece: Shelley Shoenrock, five great nephews: Cyrus Qualls, Hunter Qualls, Grayson Qualls, Brett Qualls, and Brian Qualls; six great nieces: Alista Qualls, Chloe Qualls, Kylee Qualls, Taylor Garcia, Hannah Shoenrock and Ila Shoenrock; and two great –great nephews: Benji Garcia and Beckham Garcia. Also surviving are many extended members of the Stefanelli, Montanari and Qualls families.

A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at 10 AM at Calvary Cemetery in Madera.

Remembrances may be made to the American Diabetes Association.