OBITUARY

Irene D. Peterson Dixon

August 2, 1932 – November 16, 2011

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Irene Dixon. She was a warm-hearted, well liked and hard working individual who made an impact on everyone she met.

Born on August 2, 1932 Irene was the daughter of Alfred and Dorothy Peterson. Since she was the second-born daughter she quickly learned to be responsible and respectful. Irene was an active child who had a mind of her own and wasn't afraid to show it. She found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Irene's personality throughout her life.

Though Irene was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with her family, she was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Irene was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. Irene was raised with five siblings; Jane, Ruth, Barbara, Karen, and Dennis. Irene and her siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another. She often shared memories of helping her Dad out with feeding his chickens and pumping gas at his gas staton.

Irene was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call her sentimental and a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Irene cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. Roy and Irene exchanged vows at St. Paul's Catholic Rectory of Ramsey, New Jersey on July 22, 1950. Compassionate and devoted, Irene worked hard to make her new life partner happy. The couple was blessed with their firstborn child, Susie on July 1, 1951.

Of course, things weren't always sunny. On October 4, 1976 the family's beloved Timmy died suddenly immediately after being diagnosed with leukemia. It hit the family very hard. It took many years for the family to recover from their loss. Other happy events came along. Everyone enjoyed fun vacations to many places, more weddings came along and life continued.

The little family decided to follow Mom Dorothy and Dad Alfred to sunny Florida in 1957. Their first house was built in 1958 and daughter Sandy was born on September 21, 1961. Timmy followed on September 2, 1963; the family joke was that Mom labored on Labor Day. Pat followed on June 25, 1965. It was time for a bigger house. Along came Steve on November 2, 1972 while Sue was away at college. Kevin rounded off the numbers on August 6, 1975 - just a few months before Sue's wedding!

Irene kept busy throughout all these years. Her keen interest in things that affected the lives of other people led Irene to become actively involved in professional and community organizations. Because she was outgoing and worked well with others, Irene did her fair share of volunteer work, from being a Scout Mother to her position as the President of the Friends of the Arts Committee. She would never shy away from taking the lead to help, whether it be a local charitable event, or something for one of the clubs at school for any of her children. She was a born list maker and was great at creating and sticking to schedules. She was a hardworking and loyal employee at the U.S. Postal Service for over thirty years and, after her retirement, she became an active member of the Elks Club.

Irene passed away on November 16, 2011 at Kindred Hospital in Riviera Beach, FL. She is survived by her husband Roy Dixon, her sons, Steven (Cathleen Moore) Dixon, Kevin Dixon, Patrick (Julie) Dixon, her daughters, Susan Christensen, Sandy (Jeff) Schwartz , her sisters, Jane Van Syckle, Barbara Zembriski, Ruth Jones, Karen Dunn, and her brother Dennis Peterson. A Memorial Service will be held Monday, November 28th, 2011, 11:00 am at St. Lucie Catholic Church, 280 SW Prima Vista Blvd., Port St. Lucie, FL 34983. PH: 772-878-1215.

Irene was a wonderful artist with a beautiful voice and a great talent for painting, an avid Yoga enthusiast, a winning game-player and a conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. Whenever she said something, she meant it. Irene was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss her.

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Services

  • Memorial Service Monday, November 28, 2011
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REMEMBERING

Irene D. Peterson Dixon

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Chris Johnson

November 28, 2011

Kevin and family of Irene, I am very sorry to hear of your loss. May your support for each other and the wonderful memories of Irene help comfort you during this difficult time.

Kathy Knoch

November 28, 2011

Dear Roy, Our friendship started with a "common denominator", but deepened with time. We will always remember Irene for her grace and wit. One time I remember that I said, "I'm really a nice person." Irene quickly caught it up with, "That's not what we heard." Boy did she keep me on my toes. Great times together we had and will particularly remember one whole day we spent together. Our prayer is for God to guide you and your family and give you grace with each passing day. Our favorite friend will always be missed.

Carol Barnum

November 27, 2011

Sue, What a beautiful difference one single life made! We are blessed with your friendship as a true reflection of your Mom's character, creative nature and joy for life. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family.

Bill Gertz

November 27, 2011

Dear Sue, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult period. This was a beautiful celebration of your Mothers life on the website. Irene will be deeply missed by all those people whose life she touched. But she will remain in your Heart forever. May God look over you and your family during this difficult time,
My deepest condolences for your loss.

Debbie Gardinier

November 24, 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Now is the time to relive all the wonderful memories of good times that you shared.

Jerry Manning

November 23, 2011

Excellent tribute to your mother. Certainly she will be missed by all of those who knew her.My deepest condolences.

Christine Pescatore

November 23, 2011

Mrs. Dixon was a warm and genuine person who always made me feel welcome. My heartfelt condolences to Mr. Dixon, Kevin and the rest of the family during this time.

Deb McCormick

November 22, 2011

What a wonderful tribute to a great lady. She touched everyone she met and was always a joy to be around when she visited Sue in Colorado. She spoke her mind and you always knew where you stood with her. She raised great kids who have become wonderful and caring adults which is the best tribute of all.

November 22, 2011

Kevin,
Your family at Airborne Systems were truely sadden to learn of the passing of your mother. Our prayers are with you and your family during this sad time. Always remember that the beginning date and the ending dates are significant but the dash in the middle is all the living and loving that will immortilize your mother forever in the hearts of everyone she touched. May God bless you and your family.
Respectfully,
Olga Hughes

Judi Hansen

November 22, 2011

My love to all the family during this difficult time

IN THE CARE OF

Forest Lawn Funeral Home
Fort Lauderdale, FL
954-792-9360