Gerald Dixon

Gerald “Jerry” Eugene Dixon, age 77, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 28, 1947, Gerald led a life marked by dedication, service, and deep love for his family. Gerald and his wife Elizabeth married January 1, 1966. Together they created a beautiful life full of love, family, travel and commitment. Gerald shared with his granddaughter how much he loved Elizabeth on a regular basis. Over the course of their lives together, they created invaluable core memories. Gerald proudly served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970, stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base in Spokane, Washington. His service included tours in Guam, Thailand, and Vietnam, where he demonstrated unwavering commitment and bravery as a mechanic on B-52 and KC-135 aircraft. This experience ignited his passion for flying and a fascination with airplanes, leading him to build multiple aircraft over his lifetime. He loved flying and took pride in building aircraft. Over the course of his life, he built many aircraft such as the RV6A, RV7, RV6, RV9A, and Glass Air, often taking family and friends on flights to places like Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, and the over the Enchantments. Gerald had a deep appreciation for the beauty in the world. He loved to take in the scenery and enjoy it with those he loved most. His planes were powerful and had the ability to do extreme air stunts which he was particularly proud of. His grandkids have core memories of trips to Silverwood and airshows. Gerald spent the majority of his professional life at the Chelan County PUD, where he held the title of Foreman Hydro Mechanic. He was particularly proud of his work on the salmon bypass at Rocky Reach Dam. He beamed when he spoke of his work. He set an example of strong work ethics for his family and the importance of loyalty and attention to detail. No one will ever compare to the level of service he provided to his career, his family, and his friends. Throughout his life, he remained a true craftsman, always ensuring that everything he worked on was done to perfection. Gerald was known as a fixer, always ready to help with home improvement projects, vehicle repairs, math homework, dance props for his granddaughter, whatever the task, he took on the challenge. He loved every minute of it. He particularly loved when his grandkids called and needed his assistance. He cherished spending time with his son in law making their “homestead” more enjoyable with each day that passed. The skills he passed down to his family and friends are invaluable and help to keep his memory alive with each new project that comes their way. Another of Gerald’s passions was restoring old hot rods. Over the years, he restored numerous cars, including many Corvettes, Camaros, and Impalas, and he and his wife, Elizabeth, often travelled to car shows where his detailed work won admiration and titles. His shop is a family favorite filled with pictures, awards and memories of the smell of fiberglass, projects, laughter, love and bonding. Gerald enjoyed traveling, flying, and spending time outdoors with his family. He took extra pride in his great grandkids. Of all the hats he wore, “Great Grampy” was truly his most prized. He always had the biggest smile on his face when they were around. He talked about them to anyone who would listen. Gerald’s love for flying and restoring cars was matched only by his dedication to his family and his unwavering commitment to helping those around him. His spirit of adventure and meticulous craftsmanship will be remembered by all who knew him. Gerald is survived by his devoted wife, Elizabeth Dixon of East Wenatchee; his sister, Jean Strawn of Michigan, her son, Steve Strawn and his wife, Linda Strawn, of Michigan, the sons of his Late Brother, Tim Dixon; Aaron Dixon and his wife Tudor Dixon, Evan Dixon and his wife Allison Donohue-Dixon and Andy Dixon; his daughter, Jeri Lynn Drescher, and her husband, Adam Drescher, of East Wenatchee; and his son, Rick Dixon of Spokane. He was a beloved grandfather to Brittany Robbins and her husband, Michael Robbins, of East Wenatchee; Nathan Drescher and his wife, Myranda Drescher, of East Wenatchee; and Jesse Gilbreth of Idaho. He cherished his role as a great-grandfather to Maddox Drescher, Jaxson Drescher, and Colton Robbins. His family meant more to him than any tangible item he had ever owned. In his courageous battle through cancer, family was his focus. He spent his final months dedicating his time to his family. He played games, went side by side riding and made as many memories as he could. Gerald’s legacy is one of honor, love, and service. He was a pillar of strength for his family and friends and will be deeply missed. His family would like to thank the incredible team of hospice doctors and nurses who provided unwavering support during such a difficult period of time in this journey. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude’s, the American Cancer Society, or Veteran’s Services Programs in Gerald’s memory. The family wishes to acknowledge and thank Gerald’s extended family members as well. Gerald loved each of you greatly. Daryl Hinds - Uncle Holly Hinds - Cousin Ward Glessner - Brother in Law Nancy Glessner - Sister in Law Dirk Glessner - Nephew Danielle Glessner Kiffen Roberts - Niece Ken Roberts MarChel McDaniel - Niece Bill McDaniel Liz McNeil - Niece Mark McNeil Chana Sligar - Niece Mark Sligar Arrrangements by Chapel of the Valley, East Wenatchee.

Gerald Dixon

March 28, 1947 - July 15, 2024