Helen L. Dixon

Helen L. Dixon passed away on September 11, 2025 following a prolonged battle with cancer. She was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in 1942, the daughter of Joseph and Gladys Shields. In 1950, Helen moved with her family to Rockford, Illinois and later settled in Belvidere in 1976. A graduate of Rockford East High School, Class of 1960, Helen married the love of her life, Robert L. (Bob) Dixon, in 1961.

Helen was a devoted long-time member of Trinity Lutheran Church where she participated in the women’s ministry, volunteered with the Food Pantry, and served as a Eucharistic Minister. Helen loved to play card and board games, tending her flower gardens, reading, and traveling. Together, she and Bob were proud members of several antique automobile clubs in the region.

Survivors include her children Brenda (Dan Heath) Gates, Sara (Jeff) Sorensen, and Gary (Gloralee) Dixon. She had five grandchildren; Joshua Sorensen, Alexis (Scott) Napolitano, Austin Dixon, Hunter Dixon, and Jennifer (Jeff Armistead) Gates. Helen also had a great granddaughter, Sofia Napolitano. She is also survived by her beloved sister Louise Yankowskas and her niece/goddaughter Jodi Yankowskas Johnson. Helen was preceded in death by her husband Bob, her parents Joseph and Gladys; her son-in-law Harold (Bill) Gates and brother-in-law Jerry Yankowskas.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 19th from 9:30am until the time of the Funeral Service at 11am at Trinity Lutheran Church (200 N. First Street, Rockford, IL 61107). Private family burial will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens.

As an avid blood donor herself, Helen’s wish was that in lieu of flowers, friends and family would make a donation to the Rock River Valley Blood Center in the same way she did. If you are unable please consider a monetary donation sent to Rock River Valley Blood Center, Attention: Fund Development, 419 N. 6th Street, Rockford, IL 61107 or at their website rrvbc.org.