Deon Ray Dixon

Deon Ray Dixon, a beloved family man, storyteller, lover of music and life’s simple joys, peacefully departed this world on January 12, 2025. Born on December 22, 1953, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Deon filled his 70+ years with love, laughter, and a rich collection of stories that will be cherished for generations.

Deon had a deep love for music of all kinds, which brought him comfort, inspiration, and a sense of connection. From traditional Appalachian melodies to timeless classics and beyond. Music was a source of joy that enriched his life and often underscored treasured family moments.

Deon believed that “the one who dies with the most stories wins.” He lived by this credo, chronicling not only his life but the lives of his parents and others through his various cherished family history projects. His tales of childhood adventures, family bonds, and the lessons learned along the way are his gift to his descendants, connecting generations through shared history. Those who knew him realized that his love of storytelling made it virtually impossible to get a simple answer from him and that once engaged in a conversation to plan plenty of time to wrap it up…a simple “I need to go” was never sufficient and you could still find yourself in a conversation an hour or more later.

A devoted husband to Karen, Deon often credited her as the cornerstone of their life together and the conduit to the faith that would shape their lives and that of their children. He was an active participant in his faith, serving The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in many roles over the years – most recently as a missionary focused on helping others accurately document their own family history.

Deon’s professional life reflected his resourcefulness and dedication. From assisting his father as a young boy to a fulfilling career as an engineer, he brought integrity and perseverance to every endeavor. He often credited his choice of profession to his love of trains, saying that they wouldn’t let him drive the train, but he still found a way to become an engineer.

Deon is preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Dollie and his brothers Kevin, Deni, and Jim. He is survived by his loving wife Karen, his children – Gretl, Liesl, Ammon, Ilse, Hanne, Emil, Bradley, Ian, Marte - and their families, a growing legacy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his brother Keith, his sister Jill, and extended family and friends who will remember him for his commitment and unwavering faith.

A service celebrating Deon’s life will be held June 14-15, 2025 in Hyde Park, UT, where his family and friends will gather to honor his memory through stories and the music he cherished. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to reflect on your own stories, enjoy the music that moves you, and find ways to connect with those you hold dear, continuing the legacy Deon so lovingly fostered.

In true Deon fashion, he has insisted on having the last word and wanted everyone to know that DEON is DONE (think about it)!