James Dixon

1940 - 2021

James W. Dixon
July 24, 1940 - January 22, 2021
James (Jim) William Dixon, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 22nd. He was 80 years old.

Born to William and Sarah Dixon, Jim was raised with his older sister Sally in San Francisco. He went to Notre Dame des Victoires and St. Brendan's schools. The family then moved to Marin County in 1952. He attended Kent Middle school and eventually Marin Catholic High School, graduating in 1958.

As a young man, Jim spent a year at the University of San Francisco before joining the family business, Roberts Corned Meats, on Bryant Street in San Francisco. Established in 1910, the business was, at the time, being run by his father Bill (third generation) with Jim (fourth generation) coming on board in 1960. Jim's expertise in providing excellent service and building strong customer relationships helped the company achieve new growth, earning him the unofficial title of San Francisco's "Corned Beef King." Jim officially took over the helm at Roberts in 1980 and saw the business through the height of its success in the 80's and 90's before retiring in 2006. His daughter Debbie and son Gregory currently run the business as the fifth generation in its 111th year in business.

A true force of nature, Jim was larger than life, renowned for his sense of humor and skill as a storyteller. His exuberant spirit and joie de vivre made him the heart and soul of the Garfield Club and other social circles. Jim and his wife Rose were famous for their social gatherings, showcasing Rose's culinary talents and Jim's unquestioned ability to entertain a crowd. Family, friends and celebration formed the foundation of the Dixon lifestyle, and their home in Kentfield was the site of many happy times.

Jim loved Stinson Beach, spending many summers there as a young boy at their grandfather Syd Boyle's beach house. Later, after his grandfather's passing,"Papa Syd's" beach home became a special place for Jim's family and friends to gather to spend holidays and celebrate life's big moments. "The beach" forever held a special place in Jim's heart.

Jim was also an avid sports fan. Wherever Jim was to be found, there was always a game on in the background. Whether cheering on his beloved 49ers, Giants, or Warriors, Jim's enthusiasm never flagged. He passed on his love of sports to his kids, who to this day remain die-hard fans of his favorite teams. He was a longtime member of the Olympic Club, spanning 50-plus years. He was also a member of the Meadow Club and Harbor Point Tennis Club where he enjoyed playing golf and tennis.

With a gregarious personality and a big heart, "Jimmy" was loved by all he met. He was a devoted husband and loving father who provided generously for his family. As the years pass, heroes and men of substance seem to be fewer and farther between. Jim was just such a man, and will be forever loved and missed.

Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Rose, three daughters: Debbie, Donna (Porfirio) and Jennifer (Andrew), and son Gregory (Elise). He also leaves six grandchildren: Chelsea, Jordan, Maggie, Calin, JT and Mara, and four great grandchildren with two on the way.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank or Hospice of Marin.

A private family service will be held at Monte's Chapel of the Hills in San Anselmo. A celebration of life honoring Jim will be held at a later date when we can all gather together again. For updates or to share memories of Jim, message jimmydixonmemorial@gmail.com