John Dixon

DIXON _ Dr. John Howard
May 10, 1920 - May 12, 2006

Dr. John Howard Dixon passed away at Chinook Care Centre in Calgary on May 12, 2006 at the age of 86 years. John was born in Medicine Hat, Alberta on May 10, 1920 and was raised there; later graduating with a science degree from the University of Alberta in Edmonton; a degree in Medicine from McGill University in Montreal; followed by a five-year surgical program in the Montreal area hospitals; and a one-year program at the Lahey Surgical Clinic in Boston. He also served as a Surgeon Lieutenant Commander on the HMCS "Magnificent" aircraft carrier during World War II. Before he could enrol in his surgical program, John and Isabell lived for one year in north west British Columbia where John was the camp doctor for the Taku Mining Co. in Tulsequah. He then returned to Medicine Hat to join his father, Dr. Howard Dixon, in his medical practice for two years. John then moved to Calgary in 1954 where he practised surgery for forty-six years. One of John's greatest pleasures was organizing the annual "River Rats" boating excursions on Alberta and Saskatchewan waterways. Some ninety men joined him on these spring river adventures over a span of twenty-five years. Besides his loving wife, Isabell, John's memory will be cherished by children, Ann (Don) Jenkins, Bob (Rose) Dixon, and Louise (John) Harder; grandchildren, Megs, John (Jen), Laura, Kristian, Karin, David, Dayna, and Jordan. He will also be remembered by his siblings and their families, brother Russ (Sheila); sister Peggy MacGougan; and his predeceased brother, Charles; as well as many friends and professional associates. Memorial Services will be held at McDougall United Church, 8516 Athabasca Street S.E., Calgary on Wednesday, May 17, 2006 at 2:00 p.m., with a reception following at the Calgary Golf and Country Club