Patrick Dixon

“Patrick always said he wanted his obituary to make people laugh — or at least smirk — so let’s just say: he has now found a way to get out of another doctor’s appointment or debating politics, but especially watching the Bears rebuild…Again. At least the Cubs are doing good!”


Patrick Mark Dixon, 75, of Savoy, Illinois, passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of humor, hard work, devotion, and truly generous spirit.


Born December 18, 1949, in Urbana, Illinois, Patrick was second of 5 children to Mark and Alberta Dixon. From the start, he was a natural caretaker — a role he would carry throughout his life, whether as a Navy corpsman, husband, father, brother, or friend.


A proud veteran, Patrick served in the United States Navy as a corpsman, offering care and compassion in the most difficult of circumstances. After returning home, he received his Associates Degree at Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois.  He built a long and dedicated career with the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District as a Safety & Training Director.  He also drove charter buses for special events, his favorites being the trips he made for the Illini athletic department.  He loved the road, the camaraderie, and would sometimes quietly bring along his children for the ride & experiences.  He retired in December 2004 at the age of 55, but his work ethic and love of people kept him moving-literally. To say that Patrick had an admirable work ethic is an understatement.


Patrick’s greatest joy was his family. He was selfless, humble, patient and kind. He is survived by his devoted wife, Nicole Marie Medjesky-Dixon; his son Justin Dixon and daughter-in-law Jackie, and their children Rowan, Graham, and Gemma; and his daughter Jessica Worley and son-in-law Cory, and their daughter Ava; and Sandy Gayer, mother of Justin and Jessica. 


He is also survived by his brother Mike Dixon (Kathy), his sister Peggy Thompson (Paul, deceased), his brother Andy Dixon (Cheryl), and his baby sister Mary Dixon. He was blessed with twelve nieces and nephews who each held a special place in his heart.


Patrick’s Catholic faith was a quiet cornerstone of his life, beginning as an altar boy and continuing in a lifetime of devotion. He loved the structure, the ritual, and above all, the peace it brought him. 


Outside of faith and family, Patrick had a handful of true passions: sports (especially football), politics, the weather — and uniquely — blood donation. He donated over 16 gallons of blood in his lifetime, a testament to his enduring commitment to helping others. He had so much pride in being an American patriot and his red white & blue flag was always in mint condition and still flies high today. When his children were young, he spent countless hours organizing the Fourth of July committee, embodying the spirit of community service.


He also deeply loved laughter, particularly the kind that snuck up on you in a quiet room. He had a dry wit, a keen sense of timing, and never minded being the punchline if it brought a smile to someone else’s face.


In accordance with family wishes, Patrick will be cremated and friends may greet the family from 3:00-5:00 on Friday, May 23, at Owens Funeral Home in Champaign, with a Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet Service at 5:00.  The Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 on Saturday, May 24, at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Champaign.  Military honors will be accorded by VFW #5520.  


In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in honor of Patrick M. Dixon to ImpactLife at www.bloodcenter.org/givingwhere he gave so much — both literally and figuratively.


Patrick’s life was full, and so is the space he leaves behind. He would want us to laugh through the tears, root for the underdog, and keep an eye on the forecast — just in case. 

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