Milton Earl Dickerson

Milton "Mitch" Dickerson, a man whose heart was deeply rooted in the North Country, passed away December 29, 2023. He was 93 years old.

Born in Warren, PA to Raymond and Lorena Dickerson. His passion for forestry led him to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Forestry from Penn State, which became the foundation for his remarkable career.

Mitch's extensive knowledge and experience in his field led him to be appointed as a Pennsylvania State Park Superintendent, where he served with distinction for over three decades. As an alumnus of Penn State, he carried with him a lifelong passion for education and shared his wisdom with countless individuals seeking to make a difference in the world of forestry.

He chose to retire in the Adirondacks Mountains, where he was able to continue his passion for forestry and deepen his commitment to community service through Rotary International and the Whiteface United Methodist church.

Mitch also took on the responsibility of managing the Jay Central Cemetery for many years. His dedication and commitment were unmatched as he ensured that the resting place of loved ones was cared for with unwavering respect.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Mitch found joy in tending to his gardens, visiting with neighbors, and hunting with good friends. He delighted in sharing "the woods" with both his and Kay's grandchildren, educating them about the different types of timber on adventurous tractor rides.

His love for nature extended beyond the borders of his own country, as he and his beloved life partner Kay traveled the world, immersing themselves in different forests and learning about timber management practices across the globe.

Above all, Mitch's greatest passion was tending to his and Kay's woodlots. Together, they nurtured the land, watching with pride as their efforts flourished over the years. It was in those peaceful moments, surrounded by towering trees, that Mitch found solace and a deeper connection to the beauty of nature.

When he wasn't out in the woods or fulfilling his professional duties, you could often find Mitch cheering fervently for his beloved New York Yankees and Penn State Nittany Lions.

He was preceded in death by his partner Katherine "Kay" Mackinnon, son Daniel Dickerson, stepdaughter Megan Mackinnon, and his parents and siblings.

Mitch will be deeply missed by his son Bill (Cindy) Dickerson, daughter Carol (Tim Foran) Dickerson; grandchildren Kate (Tim Esposito) Dickerson and Andrew Dickerson; stepchildren Anne (Chris Stone) Mackinnon, Maribeth (Barry Devins) Mackinnon, and Jane (Sam Nelson) Mackinnon, and his nieces, nephews and step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Whiteface United Methodist Church on February 17, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. with burial to follow at the Jay Central Cemetery.

Services were entrusted to Heidrick-Zaumetzer Funeral Home, 3 College St., Au Sable Forks.