Donald DIXON

1958 - 2021

DONALD B. DIXON 1958 - 2020 It is with sadness and regret that we announce that Don passed away unexpectedly late last year during England's second national COVID lockdown. As a result of the restrictions, he died alone, accompanied only by the staff at Northwick Park Hospital, London. Don spent his childhood in North York and his teen years in Toronto. Most summers were spent at the cottage on Lake Simcoe. There he was either in the water perfecting his swimming skills, on the water in his beloved Sailfish; or under it in his scuba gear. Don graduated from Jarvis Collegiate, where he set several school and city records as a member of the swim team (Jarvis actually had an indoor pool in those days). He then attended Monmouth College in New Jersey where, in recognition of his outstanding proficiency in the 200 yard backstroke, and 200 and 400 yard Individual Medley events, he was made a member of the All America swim team. Don was selected to be a member of the 1980 Canadian Olympic Swim Team, however Canada chose not to send any athletes to the Games that year. Don maintained his high level of fitness after leaving competitive swimming and played in several different recreational sports over the years. He never owned a car (or a television), preferring to spend the time walking or cycling to his destinations. After earning his Master of Science and Doctorate degrees at the University of Toronto, Don moved to California where, for the next six years, he worked in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of California at San Francisco. He then moved to England working first at University College London and then at Cambridge. Several years later he accepted employment in the Division of Neurophysiology at The National Institute for Medical Research, Mill Hill. In retirement Don continued to be involved in the activities of the social club at The NIMR. He honed his skills as a photographer and put them to good use at the many air shows he attended with comrades and when sport diving in places like the Red Sea. He was accepted into, and made many solid friendships as a member of 'The Friday Gang' at The Three Hammers pub in Mill Hill. Don was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Bernice, and his older brother Bob. Don is survived by brother Peter, estranged son Christopher, and Bob's children Marshall and Meghan. Don was cremated last March and his ashes rest in Kensal Green Cemetery, London. No services were held. If you'd like to salute Don, please consider raising a pint to friendship and to shared, good times. Alternatively you might consider a donation to the Cancer Society or another charity of your choice.