Dixon, Gerald William, of Vulcan (formerly of Carstairs), passed away at the Vulcan Community Health Centre on June 8, 2014 at the age of 83 years.
Gerald was born July 6, 1930 in Mono Center, ON. He was the 6th child of 8, born to Charles and Annie Dixon. Gerald moved to Alberta in 1950. Over the next two decades, he worked on the farms of Elmer Rogers, Jesse Davies, Alister Groundwater and Curtis Clark (Acme Holsteins).
In 1965 he married the love of his life Deanna Klys. Together, they raised their 3 children Doug, Joanne & Susan. In 1972, their dreams became reality when they purchased their farm 3 miles east of Carstairs & Dixon’s Salers was created.
Over the next 16 years, Gerald & Deanna worked tirelessly building a herd of purebred Salers cattle that would be recognized around the world. In 1989, they dispersed the herd, sold the farm and moved to an acreage south of Olds to begin the next chapter in their lives. This included memorable trips to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, the southern US and across Canada. As well, their time was spent camping, attending rodeos, chuckwagon races and fishing trips throughout Alberta.
Unfortunately, their retirement years were cut short in 1992 when Deanna lost her battle to cancer. Gerald resided in Carstairs for the next 16 years with his sister-in-law Ann. It was at this time that Gerald developed and perfected his skills as a skilled carpenter. Many people were blessed with his creations.
In 2011, due to his failing health, Gerald move to Vulcan and began the next part of his life. It was here that he was able to enjoy more time with his growing grandchildren. Gerry made many new friends at the Peter Dawson Lodge and could be found touring the town on his scooter on sunny days.
One June 8, Gerald left his life peacefully surrounded by his family to be reunited with his sweetheart.
Gerald is survived by his sisters Dee and Midge, his son Doug (Heather), daughter Joanne (Malcolm MacDougall), daughter Susan (Todd Bygrove) and seven grandchildren Josh, Hayden & Sarah Dixon, Duncan, Alec & Abby MacDougall and Shelby Bygrove. He was predeceased by his wife, parents, 3 sisters and 1 brother.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Carstairs United Church on Saturday June 21, 2014 at 3:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Gerald’s memory can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, #100, 119 – 14 St. NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6.
Arrangements in care of Vulcan Funeral Home. Telephone 1-403-485-2633. E-mail condolences through www.vulcanfuneralhome.ca.
So sorry to hear about the loss of your Dad. We are happy that we got to know him while he lived here at Extendicare. We will miss his beautiful smile, his quick wit and the many stories he told. May he Rest in Peace.
Sending love and strength to all of the Dixon Family as you remember the wonderful memories of your dad and Grandpa. He left a remarkable legacy in his family.
With deepest Sympathy.
Scott, Jackie, Jayden & Jaxon Payne
Gerald always brought a smile to my face in the short time I got to know him at Peter Dawson Lodge. As I was one of the cooks, he always had a quick reply for a bigger bowl of ice cream, gooey butter tarts with lots of raisins, and he was always – always – always a gentleman. He will be missed – sorry for your loss.
I never had the pleasure of meeting him but from all the stories I have heard from Sue I know he was a special man. The mention of his carpentry reminded me that I am lucky enough to have one of his hand made bowls. Our thoughts are with you all.