Kevin Bruce Cox

Kevin Bruce Cox, 69, of Mesa, AZ died peacefully at home on January 2, 2023.  Born in San Diego, CA in 1953, he was the son of the late James Cox and Vera Cox-Callahan.  As a Navy brat, Kevin grew up in several states and also spent time in Panama.  These childhood traveling memories inspired his love of backpacking and hitch-hiking around the world.  He enjoyed sharing his adventures with family, friends, and even strangers if an opportunity presented itself.

In 1971, Kevin spent a year traveling over 50,000 miles through the United States and Canada.  His love of travel and meeting new friends continued over the next two years as he hitch-hiked across much of Europe and the Middle East, visiting more than 25 countries and logging hundreds of thousands of miles. He was referred to in the newspaper as “the man who hitch-hiked the world.”  He credited his travels with his unique ability to easily talk to strangers, make friends wherever he went, and for his willingness to help someone in need.

After his years of globetrotting, Kevin returned to his home in Page, AZ, where he pursued a career as a Water and Wastewater Treatment Operator, achieving and maintaining Grade 4 certifications in both areas.  He also served his community as a volunteer Firefighter and EMT.  Through his rescue work while living by Lake Powell, he became an avid SCUBA diver.  In his spare time, he achieved notoriety in the area making his hand-crafted, sand-casted, Lake Powell driftwood candles.

Kevin relocated to Mesa, AZ and worked for the U.S. Forest Service as a Grade 4 Water and Wastewater Treatment Specialist until his retirement in 2021. He enjoyed the outdoors and working closely with coworkers, considering his work companions to be like a second family.  He enjoyed animals, taking care of his pool, riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, and being a good neighbor.

Kevin is survived by his three children, Anneka, Tyler, and Gwen, three grandchildren, his twin sister Kerin, and brothers Will and Jeff.

A celebration of life will be held privately for family and scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.