DIXON, DON GARDNER 1926-2007. Don G. Dixon passed away at his home on Jan. 24, 2007, following a long illness. Don Gardner Dixon was born in Salem, Mo., on Nov. 17, 1926. He was the youngest child of Henry and Lenora (McRoberts) Dixon. Following his high school graduation in 1944, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served in the Pacific aboard an attack transport and an LST in World War II. Following his stint in WWII, he returned to his home in Salem, Mo., for 18 months before coming to Portland in 1948 where he met his future bride and wife of almost 57 years, Geraldine "Gerry" Fancher. Upon first coming to Portland, Don worked at Western Electric before beginning a 35-year career at the Water Bureau. Don and Gerry were married on April 18, 1950. In August of 1950 he was recalled by the Navy to active duty during the Korean conflict. He served with MCB-3 at Amchitka and at Subic Bay in the Philippines. He returned to Portland in 1952 and remained in the reserves serving with Detachment 13-19 of Portland, Ore. Aside from his active Naval Service, UTCS Dixon retired as the Senior Enlisted Advisor after 30 years of service. Don enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting with his family and hunting buddies. Don and Gerry loved to travel, dance and bowl together. One of his favorite hobbies was carpentry. He had a keen eye for detail. He was also an avid reader and student of history, particularly Civil War history. With 10 grandchildren, he was a frequent fixture at the kids' sporting and music events, and an active participant in their care following the birth of each of his beloved grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Gerry; daughters, Lynn-Marie McKeown Fancher and Donna Kubiak; son, Craig; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. Don was a member of the Presbyterian Church; Past Worshipful Master, Mt. Tabor Masonic Lodge; Non-Commissioned Officers Association; the Elks Club; and a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the American Legion. He lived for 50 years in the same house he and his wife had built. The family suggests that remembrances be made to the Oregon Chapter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 9320 S.W. Barber Blvd., Portland, OR 97219. Published in The Oregonian on 2/2/2007.