PORTLAND - Robert F. "The Magician" Nixon, 63, of Auburn, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Jan. 19, at Maine Medical Center.

He was born in Portland, Jan. 4, 1945, the son of Frederic and Velma Hersey Nixon. Bob was educated in Portland schools and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era and was married to Laurence Bonneau for 36 magical and wonderful years.

He was a well-known magician who had always made a difference throughout Maine by performing magic and bringing cheer and amazement to people of all ages. He was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians as well as serving as vice president of the Society of American Magicians. He and his wife went overseas to perform for the military and their families with the Armed Forces Entertainment/USO. He felt that was the least he could do to support our troops who are defending our country.

A second passion of his was the game of chess, which brought him to various places across the country to compete in tournaments. He enjoyed traveling with his wife and spending time with his family and friends. He was a very proud and loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

He is survived by his wife, Laurence of Auburn; a son, Robert Nixon II of New York City; a daughter, Kimberly Joler and husband, Kevin, of Auburn; a granddaughter, Micah Joler of Auburn; a sister, Dartha Vance and husband, Philip, of Cumberland Foreside; two sisters-in-law, Sylvie Dalzil and husband, Michel and Madeleine Juneau and husband, Norbert; a brother-in-law, Jacques Bonneau and companion, Mariette; as well as aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.