Kevin Matthew Dixon

Kevin Matthew Dixon, 57, passed away December 3, 2023 at his home in Hampton, Virginia. Born April 18, 1966, in Iowa City, he grew up in Grinnell and graduated from Grinnell High School in 1986. He was a standout athlete, a scholar and a quiet force-his steady determination, strong work ethic and team spirit shaping him from an early age.

Kevin earned his Bachelor's degree in mathematics at Simpson College and later a Master's degree in engineering from Iowa State University. In 2000, he began his long and meaningful career with Newport News Shipbuilding, now a division of Huntington Ingalls Industries. As an Engineer Mechanical 4, he worked in the Aircraft Carrier Engineering division in the Propulsion Machinery Department. He also supported the Nimitz Class Aircraft Carrier Construction and Overhaul Programs as well as the Kesselring site of the Knows Atomic Power Laboratory. Kevin approached every project with precision, humility and a sense of purpose.

Kevin had a brilliant mind and a gentle spirit. He was especially passionate about World War II history, having an impressive collection of books given to him by his father. He loved giving gifts-especially at Christmas. He delighted in wrapping presents in clever, mischievous ways, taking joy in the laughter and surprise of others. His playful Christmas pranks, especially those shared with his Grandma Swank, became cherished family stories. One of Kevin's greatest joys was being his nieces' and nephews' excitement on Christmas morning, waiting for him to wake up so they could open their gifts. He was a passionate fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and St. Louis Cardinals. He enjoyed tracking players, watching games and celebrating his teams' victories with quiet satisfaction. His love of sports was one of the many small joys that reflected his steady, heartfelt way of moving through the world.

Kevin lived quietly but loved deeply. His kindness, his intelligence, and gentle humor left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him.

He is preceded in death by his father, Larry Dixon, his grandparents, Lester and Ruby Dixon, Ira and Darleen Swank and several beloved family members of the Dixon and Swank families.

He is survived by his mother, Sandra( Sandy) Dixon of Pella, Iowa; his sister, Rhonda Mostovyck (Mark), Jackson, Wyoming; his brother Randy (Kim) Dixon of Bloomfield, Iowa; his nephews Alexander Mostovyck and Stefan Mostovyck, Josh Dixon, Jared Dixon, Jace Dixon; and his nieces Jayden Dixon and Sophia Mostovyck and his great nephews and nieces, all of whom will miss him dearly.

Kevin leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, gentle kindness, and unwavering love. Though he lived modestly, he touched the hearts of those around him in lasting ways.

A memorial service will be held Monday, December 15 at 4:00 p.m. at Riverside Chapel, 7415 River Road, Newport News, Virginia with a celebration of life to follow in Iowa next summer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Kevin, to United Way of the Virginia Peninsula at www.uwvp.org/give