Dixon Arthur Lee

Our beloved patriarch, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and great grandfather passed away peacefully and unexpectedly at home. Dixon was a marvelous and accomplished man with of course, faults and foibles, who lived an extraordinary and exemplary full life. We all have been so blessed to have had his love and counsel all these years. Dixon was born in the small coal mining town of Price, UT to Robert and Thinelda Lee. It was a difficult time and a difficult life. He had a vision and left his rural community to attend the University of Utah. There he entered medical school after three years of undergraduate work and graduated with honors in 1955. Dixon then entered the Navy and had a 20-year storied career. While a medical resident he obtained his flight surgeon credentials followed by specializing in internal medicine then cardiology and attaining board certifications in both specialties. His last duty station was in Maryland where he became Chief of Cardiology then Chief of Medicine at the Bethesda Naval Hospital. Highlights of his time at Bethesda Naval hospital included accompanying a delegation of congressmen and senators to Africa, sailing on nuclear sub trials at the personal invitation of Admiral Hyman Rickover, as well as providing medical care to numerous dignitaries. Finally, he served as attending physician at the US Capital before retiring at the rank of Captain. He continued his formal practice of medicine with Tri City Cardiology Group in Oceanside, CA until 1988.Dixon was a "country doctor" in the best sense of the euphemism, always available, working tirelessly without thought for himself. The reward was in assisting those suffering, care giving and healing where possible. More than generous with his time, always there for the community and neighbors, mild mannered and wise beyond all appearances. He gave freely of his time and expertise long after he hung up his shingle.In April 1952, while in medical school his sister Anne introduced him to her friend, Patricia Cecil. He was more than smitten and in June, just before she was to move back home to Washington, he asked her to marry him. They were married that September and the 70-year adventure with the love of his life began. While in medical school, they had their first child with three more following in the next five years. The multiple moves with the Navy afforded many opportunities for adventure and were used to explore this country. He, Pat and their tribe made many new friends, reveled in camping, sailing, theater, museums, music and different cuisines. Once the children were out of the nest, they traveled the world. Many of those trips included their beloved son Scot, who left us too soon back in 1985. Throughout retirement Dixon and Pat basked in the time spent with their grandchildren and at their beloved family retreat in Stabler, WA. Forever proud of his children and grandchildren, he was not shy in letting them know this as well as how much he loved them.Dixon had many facets. He was a true gentleman with a strong and steady moral compass. Also, he was a partner, provider, protector, parent, planter, poet, philosopher and physician. He loved animals, baking bread, the outdoors, gardening and tackling projects. It was a wonder to watch him care for his milkweed plants and monarch butterfly caterpillars. The poems he created for family milestones were not only clever and witty but wise and heartfelt. His family came first of which he was a fierce protector and provider. Everything made with his hands was a work of art. Whether a photograph from his darkroom, a beautiful carving, a rocking horse for a grandchild or a Taj Mahal woodshed each was constructed with creativity, care and soulfulness. Clever, wise and unassuming he left us awed and inspired.Dixon was always curious and a had a lifelong thirst for learning. Whether it was reading an obscure book on the Columbia river, looking up a new word, or still reading the latest medical journals he was constantly learning. Education was everything to Dixon. It was his way to a better life and he believed in the opportunity for others. Many have benefited and will benefit from his generosity in providing funds for college educations. But overridingly, he was kind, compassionate, gentle, and humble. He was not forth coming of his accomplishments so many are surprised to learn of his past. His colleagues and patients can attest to his gift for healing and caring. All who met him can speak to his extraordinary kindness, compassion and generosity. He would regularly ask "What can I do for you?" which sums up how he lived his life. May we all take a page from Dixon and ask what can we do for each other. Surely January 25, 2024 was a "Slivowitz Day" for those of us left behind and we all raise our glass to this exceptional man.Dixon was preceded in death by his adored soulmate Patricia and his son Scot. He is survived by his children Michael (Katharine), Mac, and Penny (Scott), grandchildren Callie (Bryce), Alyssa (Tom), Sam (Amanda), Lindsey (Monica), and Jesse and his great grandchildren Charlie, Cooper, Hank, and Murphy.There will be a private family service at a later date. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to a charity that is meaningful to you.