Obituary of Leslie Dale Dixon

Leslie Dale Dixon Our beloved dear brother, Leslie Dale Dixon, passed away in Santa Cruz, November 23, 2010 at the age of 61. He was born in Nashville, Tennessee on August 25, 1949. He attended schools in Monterey before making his home in Santa Cruz. Dale is survived by his twin sister, Gale Dixon Brown of Chico, Jodie Dixon Hall of Murphys, and brother Chip Dixon of Sparks. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Mary Dixon, and brother Donald Dixon, and sister Sharyn Dixon. During Dale's late teens he was diagnosed with schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder. He not only suffered much mental and emotional anguish for years, but also isolation due to the stigma and misunderstandings surrounding the myths of mental illness. It wasn't until Dale moved to Santa Cruz did he begin to receive the necessary support that sustained him up until his death. After conquering his addictions he focused his attention on his desire to live independently. MHCAN (Mental Health Client Action Network) a peer run, peer owned, Self-help/Wellness center in Santa Cruz that provides education and support for people with mental health disabilities is where Dale first turned to for support. Staff at MHCAN, Community Connection, and the Santa Cruz Community Counseling Center is to be highly commended for their heartfelt support and commitment for Dale as he jumped through the hoops that would eventually lead him to live the life he yearned for. Dr. Patrick Teverbaugh played a significant role in Dale's journey. He was always there for Dale and had been for over a decade. Dale's family members greatly appreciate Dr. Teverbaugh's involvement. Dale's legacy will not be that he was a schizophrenic, but more so for the gentle spirit he projected onto others. He had a heart of gold. He would be seen around town in his yellow VW bug with his four-legged companion, Tony. Dale was diligent when it came to working at his job placement. He was a minimalist for he desired living simply. His courage, sense of humor, and compassion along with his infectious laugh will always be cherished in our hearts. He is at peace now. A gathering in Dale's honor will be held Friday, December 3, from 11-1pm at Community Connection located at 300 Harvey West Boulevard, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Donations can be made to Community Connection or SPCA .