August 23, 1942 - December 20, 2024
In loving memory ~
John Dixon 1942 - 2024, age 82, passed away due to health issues at the 100 Mile District General hospital on December 20, 2024. He was born at his parent's home on August 23, 1942 to Maude Dixon (nee Christopher) and to William Dixon. He leaves behind his sister Joan Dixon, and his grandchildren, Kiesha Gardipy and Gage Dick.
His brothers (all deceased) included Morris Dixon, Edward Frank Dixon, Peter Dixon, James Dixon, Henry David Dixon, and Billy Dixon. He was predeceased by his sisters Anne Mueller (nee Dixon), and Laurine Vilac (nee Dixon). He is also predeceased by his son, Ross Dick.
He attended school at Lac La Hache Elementary School, and after leaving school, worked for the railway for a period, did silviculture work in various places, and did bar-keeping between here and the coast, making lasting friendships along the way. Wherever he lived and worked, Lac La Hache was a cherished place where he returned time and again. After losing his brother, Harry, his childhood hometown once again beckoned, and he returned to stay and to re-connect with the many friends who make Lac La Hache home.
John, also known to many as "JD" relied on his many of those neighbors for rides to and from 100 Mile. Often, he would simply get on Highway 97, with his signature cowboy hat, his long white hair, and his leather coat. Within minutes, a vehicle would stop for him to get to town. Once there, he frequented the local A&W for his coffee and his newspaper - "small coffee with one sugar - please".
On a regular basis, he traveled to Canim Lake to take part in community activities with the Elders. The While Feather Family Centre arranged for transportation to and from the community for meals bi-weekly. Living alone at Lac La Hache had its challenges for him in the past couple of years. Close family members from Canim Lake, and immediate neighbors became vital links for assistance when required. Perhaps his biggest joys included the birth of his son, Ross Dick (deceased), and the births of his grandchildren, Kiesha and Gage. Of them, he often was heard to say, "they're my life, they're all I have."
John will be missed by his sister, Joan, and his numerous nieces, nephews, cousins not only at Canim Lake, Simpcw, and Kamloops, but also scattered across the province, and by his childhood buddies from Lac La Hache.
Funeral service will be held on Friday, December 27th, 2024 at Canim Lake Community Centre. He will be cremated, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.