John Dixon

John Robert Dixon, 81, of Charlevoix, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Pineview Cottage in Harbor Springs. He was born on June 6, 1944, in Bay City, the son of Richard and Irene (Bouckart) Dixon.

John graduated from Bay City Central High School and went on to obtain his undergraduate degree from the GM Institute (now Kettering University). On May 15, 1965, he married the love of his life, Susan Phelps. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force which brought the pair to California. While he was there, John earned a master’s degree in mechanical engineeringfrom USC. Upon his honorable discharge, John took a job with Westinghouse in Washington State. In 1974, he and his family moved to Charlevoix which they have called home ever since. John worked at St. Mary’s Cement Plant – formerly Medusa – for many years, spending the last several of his career as plant manager.

John spent much of his time giving back to the community and volunteering on various boards. He was a stalwart member of the Lions Club, spent many summers as a counselor at Camp Quality, volunteered countless hours at the Charlevoix food bank, served on the Charlevoix Public Library board, the zoning board for the City of Charlevoix, and the Charlevoix Credit Union board. He also served on the board of trustees at the First Congregational Church of Charlevoix and had been a dedicated member of the church for many years.

In his free time, John liked tinkering with house projects and fixing anything that needed attention. He was an avid reader of non-fiction, particularly US history and science-related topics. John walked nearly everywhere he went in Charlevoix, including to and from work for several year at the cement plant – even in the winter. He and Sue enjoyed sitting together at home watching wildlife in their backyard, traveling together, and hosting or attending dinner parties with friends and family.

John is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 61 years, Susan Dixon; and his son, Matthew (Suzanne) Dixon of Portland, OR.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Lisa Dixon; and his brother, Thomas Dixon.

A memorial service honoring John's life will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, at the First Congregational Church of Charlevoix, 101 State St., Charlevoix, MI 49720.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lisa Dixon Scholarship Fund, c/o First Congregational Church of Charlevoix, 101 State St., Charlevoix, MI 49720.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com