Robert John Dixon, veteran, Elks member
Robert “Bob” Dixon passed away peacefully Saturday, April 4, 2026, reuniting with his beloved wife, Patricia, on what would have been their 56th wedding anniversary. Born Feb. 25, 1946, in Jersey City and raised in Verona, N.J., Bob was the son of John and Marie Dixon. He graduated from Seton Hall Prep and went on to attend St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.
While at St. Joseph’s, Bob was a member of the Air Force ROTC, a training that led to his honorable service in the U.S. Air Force. During his military career, he was stationed at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, an experience that shaped his lifelong values of discipline and service to his country. A devoted alumnus, Bob remained a passionate fan of St. Joe’s basketball throughout his life.
Following his military service, Bob transitioned into a successful career in the food industry. He spent several years with Nabisco before joining RC Fine Foods in Belle Mead, N.J. As the director of sales and operations, Bob was known for his steady leadership, operational expertise, and the genuine relationships he built with his colleagues and clients over many years of dedicated work.
Bob and Patricia shared 54 wonderful years of marriage, raising their family in Morristown, N.J. Bob was a devoted father to Kerry Harper (Dixon), Robert Dixon Jr. and Tammy Shank (Dixon), and a proud father-in-law to Jonathan Harper. He cherished time spent with his grandchildren, Kathryn Harper, Ryan Harper, Dominic Shank and Keegan Shank.
In 2008, Bob and Pat retired to Lewes, fully embracing the coastal lifestyle. Bob found great joy in his retirement. He was a familiar and beloved face at the Elks Lodge, where he spearheaded the bingo program and the youth-focused Hoop Shoot basketball tournament. His commitment to the Lodge and his community led to him being honored as Elk of the Year for the 2019-2020 term. Always one for a challenge and a laugh, Bob loved testing his knowledge at trivia. He was also a proud founding member of the Manatees, a close-knit group of retirees who first met and bonded in their YMCA water exercise class.
Family was the cornerstone of Bob’s life. He was a constant presence in his children’s lives, serving as a Cub Scout pack leader and coaching their sports teams. Bob found immense pride in supporting both his children and grandchildren, from cheering at sporting events to attending school concerts. His quiet strength and the joy he took in his family’s milestones will forever be remembered.
Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife and the love of his life, Patricia Dixon; his daughter, Tammy Shank; and his parents, John and Marie Dixon. His legacy of hard work, community service, and devotion to his family will live on in the hearts of his children and grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, May 15, at St. Edmond Catholic Church, 409 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, the Elks National Foundation or a charity of choice.
