Sam H. Dixon, 85, Celina, passed away in the early morning of Feb. 13, 2014, at The Laurels of Shane Hill, Rockford.

He was born Feb. 15, 1928, in Celina to the late Sam D. and Lillian Heil Dixon.

Surviving are three children, Sam K. (Laura) Dixon, Corona, Calif., Randy (Angie) Dixon, Cincinnati, and Teresa Roberts, St. Marys, and their mother, Zita Dixon Bidwell, St. Marys; four grandchildren, Jennifer, Megan and Kyle Dixon, and Ashley Roberts; his constant companion, his beloved dog,"Dixie"; three stepchildren, Collin Thomas, Van Wert, and Rhonda Thomas Slough and Nick Thomas, both of Findlay; and five stepgrandchildren, Eric Duvall, Shaun and Cory Seibert, and Brady and Travis Dickerson.

His former wife, Judy Wise Thomas Dixon, also passed away on Feb. 13, several hours after Sam's death. His son-in-law, Walter Pearl "Jr." Roberts, also preceded him in death.

He was the owner of Sam Dixon Motor Sales in Celina for many years, continuing a family tradition in the automotive business. A 1946 graduate of Celina High School, he proudly served with the U.S. Army from 1951-52, during the Korean Conflict. He enjoyed bowling, golfing and working on his yard. He was interested in genealogy, was an avid writer, and had written many stories of family history. A very social man, he maintained lifetime memberships in many local organizations, including the Mercer County Elks Lodge #2170, the Dayton Antioch Shrine and Masonic Lodge #241, Eagles Aerie #1291, Moose Lodge #1473, American Legion Post #210 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #5713, all of Celina. He also served on the Honor Guard for the Celina VFW.

Calling is 2-5 p.m. Monday at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home, Celina, with a memorial service at 5 p.m., the Rev. Diane Mendelson officiating. Celina American Legion Post and VFW Post will conduct military rites after the service.
  A meal and fellowship for friends and family will be held at the Celina VFW Post on West Logan Street, following the service. Burial will be at Swamp College Cemetery, Celina, at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Alzheimer's Association or a charity to support the blind.

Condolences may be expressed at dickandsonshellwarthfh.com.