Joseph Loren Dixon, a resident of Fond du Lac, passed away Sunday, April 25, 2021 in Austin, Texas. Joe was born January 17, 1940 in Campus, Illinois, to Thomas and Dorothy Dixon. Joe was a graduate of Dwight High School and attended Northern Illinois University. Upon graduating high school he enrolled in the United States Marine Corps, and served our country for five years. In 1963, he married Sandra Sadoff, and together they created a family and life together. Joe was a distinguished and accomplished pilot and achieved every aviation rating, including helicopter and jet, and completed his private and commercial pilot licenses in the shortest amount of time for any student. His mastery for aviation allowed him to build a Formula V Midget Plane, which led to many awards including the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Wittman Trophy, The Durham Trophy, for the Best Auto Powered Aircraft at the EAA. His Formula V Midget was only the first crafted of its kind in the Midwest except for Steve Wittman’s, who was a consultant, professor, and friend to Joe. Joe’s extensive knowledge of aviation led him to consult, teach, and instruct students across the country. In July 2002, Joe was awarded the EAA’s most prestigious “Lindy” trophy. The Lindy awards excellence in construction, restoration, and craftsmanship for a Wittman-designed Tailwind, constructed by Joe. This distinguished honor was given by Charles Lindbergh’s grandson, Eric Lindbergh. Joe not only took to the air, but loved cars and a vast majority of them. Joe collected and built many automobiles over the years. His passion included a 1934 Ford, a 1970 Corvette, 1940 Ford, Chevy Impala. His pride and joy was a 1949 Cadillac Sedanette. Through the years, Joe achieved numerous awards for his attention to detail and craftsmanship, and the love he had for automobiles. He could always be found in his building called “Joe’s Paradise.” This is where friends would come over and catch up on the latest projects and news, and where many great decisions took place. Joe’s time and energy not only involved cars and airplanes, but 30 years of giving time and labor as a Director and Manager of Tri-Welders Supply. Joe’s majority of efforts were spent at Kohler Company, bridging the two companies together. Whether it be design, creating, developing, or working with many teams, Joe’s dedication to his career allowed him to be at the forefront for the most current and innovative ideas to present to the public. Joe was involved in many organizations, which included: Experimental Aircraft Association, Fondy Vintage Auto Group, Yacht Club, Sail Club, Ducks Unlimited, Quiet Bird, Road America, Corvette Club, Young Eagles Club, and The EAA Foundation. Survivors include: a daughter, Pamela Maguire (Sean), and grandson, Conor, of Austin, Texas. Dear friends who came to Joe’s aid three years ago to help him from a difficult situation include: Dan Perry (Jill), Greg Smith (Maureen), Tim Hjelly (Luanne), The Idzik Family, Denise Clumpner, Jesse Fisher, and the late Butch Gurnz (Gina), all of Fond du Lac. Joe loved and enjoyed the many animals at The Auberge as well as his favorite grand doggies, Bernie, Betty Sue, and Blue kitty cat. A son, Patrick. Preceding in death: Sandra Sadoff Dixon, Dave and Mary Sadoff, Thomas and Dorothy Dixon, Deane Dixon, and Robert Dixon. We would like to give great thanks and gratitude to the staff at the Auberge in Austin, Texas. Your compassion and kindness through this journey of life gave Joe comfort, peace, and friendship that he held close to his heart. A celebration of life will be hosted for Joe in his honor at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make all donations to the Fond du Lac area Humane Society, (920) 922-8873.

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