Obituary of Roy Edward Dixon

Roy Edward passed away with all the love of his family by his side on Thursday June 19, 2025, at the age of 88. Beloved husband of the late Eleanor Dixon (2022). Loving father to Kelly (Glen) Purgavie, Jacki (Daniel) Leblanc, Brian (Kathryn) Dixon, Mary Jane (Brian) Schwarz and his beloved dog, Beans. He will sadly be missed by his brothers Jack (Shirley) Dixon, and Robert Dixon, his sister Margaret (Herman) Bruin, sister-in-law Dori (late Ray) Schooley and brother-in-law Harry (the late Lois) Roe.

He will be fondly remembered as Papa to his 10 grandchildren: Alexandra (Chris), Liam, Emily (Kellen), Madeline, Isaac, Sophia (Mark), Olivia, Nicole, Ella, and Ben. He was a Great Papa to Everly and Mia. He will be missed by many nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends.

Roy had a passion and love for life whether vacationing at Sauble Beach with his family, an occasional golf game or going on long scenic drives with his Ellie. He worked professionally selling insurance at Allstate until he opened his own insurance office in St. Catharines, Ontario. Roy will be remembered for his sense of humour, enjoying his neighborhood and puttering around his home in retirement.

Roy was born on March 10th, 1937 and he loved to joke about his entry into this world, asking people if they knew why he was born in Hamilton? Why, to be close to his mother of course! He was the second of four children born to William ‘Bill’ and Ida Mae Dixon. The family moved from Hamilton to Port Colborne and by the time Roy was six, they had settled in Welland South. Roy had many tales of his early days and he lived life fully. A young man in his 20’s, he met the love of his life, Eleanor ‘Ellie’ Roe at a beach party on Reebs Bay. It was a night to remember for a lifetime.

Roy and his ‘bride’ Ellie were married not long afterwards and went on to have a long and love-filled marriage. They adored each other and were best friends for life. With their beloved Jack Russell, Beans in tow, they enjoyed life’s simple pleasures of home life, long country drives and yearly camping or Sauble Beach trips. You could always drop by early evening and enjoy a beer with them to discuss the world’s problems. The Dixon’s were always late dinner folk, so there was plenty of time to enjoy a cold drink or two, unwind and enjoy the moment. Their home was their sanctuary and they loved when people would drop by, be it their friends and family or their children’s friends. They enjoyed the excitement and you always felt welcome.

Roy had a natural easy wit about him and always made people laugh, most often when he wasn’t even trying. He was a sensitive and wise man who was an unforgettable mentor and friend to his children, siblings, most especially his ‘baby’ brother Bob, and to many nieces, nephews and cousins. Everyone has a fond memory of Roy that brings a smile to their face! He was always such a patient and considerate listener. You always felt seen and heard when you were in his presence. He was a consummate gentleman and he made those who crossed his path smile, right up to his last days at the Port Colborne hospital. The staff shared with his family how much of a pleasure he was. The care and comfort he received from Dr. Scher and the staff was beyond extraordinary. It is with deep gratitude and thanks that we honour the heartfelt care he received during his final days.

Many thanks to so many people who were touched by Roy and made it a priority to keep him in their daily thoughts. Most especially his sister-in-law Dori Schooley (late Ray), cousin Pat Butchart, niece Kerri Dixon, special Sauble Beach friends Marilyn ‘Myrt’ and Bob ‘Nino’ Dautovich and McColl neighbours Bill and Michelle Odaisky, Cathy Ventura and Ross Secord. Wherever Roy went, he left his mark. He was, and will always be, unforgettable.

In keeping with Roy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life is planned for Roy on Saturday, July 19th at 34 McColl Drive in Welland between 1:00 and 4:00. Please, as Roy would have said, the next time you’re by the Welland canal, ‘drop in’ and join us in toasting to Roy and a life well lived.

If desired, donations to the NHS - Foundation (Port Colborne Palliative Care) would be appreciated.