With deep sorrow and abiding love, we announce the passing of Donald Kenneth Dixon, Sr., a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and mentor, who passed away on July 5, 2025, at the age of 80 after a long and courageous battle with illness.
Born on June 18, 1945, in San Francisco, California, to Albert and Alice Dixon, Don was the youngest of six siblings: John Dixon, Jim Dixon, Frances Rodriques, and Alice Sousa. He is survived by his older brother, Albert Dixon. They grew up in a small home in Hollister, with little more than one another. His childhood was full of endless schemes, mischief and playful chaos.
At just 15 years old, as a freshman in high school, Don met the love of his life and his best friend, Beverly Ann Lemos. Their deep connection grew into a beautiful marriage and a lifelong partnership built on laughter, mutual respect, and unwavering love. Don’s life revolved around making Bev smile. To him, she was always the most beautiful woman in the world—something he reminded everyone of every time she walked into a room.Don and Bev loved music, dancing and concerts. They spent years learning and eventually mastering country-western dancing. Watching them two-step together was a gift, and you could see how truly happy he was when he embraced her.
Don was an electrician by trade, a craftsman by spirit, and a teacher at heart. Through decades of dedication and excellence, he became a respected leader in his field. Later in his career, Don found his true calling: sharing his passion for the trade by mentoring others. He taught with pride and purpose, eventually rising to lead the IBEW Local 332 Apprenticeship Program, where he served as an advocate and guide to countless apprentices and fellow electricians. His legacy within the union is one of integrity, mentorship, and respect.
Don was a devoted father to his four children: Donald Dixon Jr., Doug Dixon, Denelle Dixon, and his late daughter Dena Dixon, who left this world far too soon. He was also a proud grandfather to Justin Dixon, Mackenzie Sanko, Josh Dixon, Casey Dixon, Tyler Dixon, Dylan Thayer, Trevor Thayer, and Jax Thayer, and a doting great-grandfather to nine great-grandchildren—all of whom brought him endless joy.
He was a constant presence on the sidelines of his children’s and grandchildren’s games, cheering them on with pride. He loved camping trips, long drives, storytelling, reading and building just about anything—homes, furniture, playhouses—always with care and joy. Don was obsessed with trains, their movement, their sound and their history. He spent hours drawing them and a life’s journey reading about them. While Don was known for being strong-willed and a bit stubborn, his smile and infectious laugh lit up every room. He was the steady hand, the problem-solver, the peacemaker—the one always trying to smooth the edges and let the light shine through.
What he wanted most in life was simple: to sit next to his wife and hold her hand.
Those who knew Don will remember his warmth, his wit, his insatiable curiosity, and his deep pride in his family. His legacy is one of love, craftsmanship, and unwavering devotion.
Don is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly, his children Donald Jr. and his wife Jessica, Doug and his wife Lisa, and Denelle, along with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless others whose lives he touched through friendship and mentorship. He now rests peacefully, reunited with his daughter Dena and his son-in-law Harvey Anderson. Don was also blessed with amazing caregivers, Chi and Juanita, that supported him and the family throughout his illness.
A private memorial will be held to celebrate Don’s life, his enduring impact, and the deep love he gave so freely to all who knew him.
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