Ann Dixon

Ann Dixon, age 98, of Austin, Minnesota, passed away, Friday, January 12, 2024, at St. Mark’s Living in Austin. Ann Coggins was born on December 1, 1925, in Austin, Minnesota to parents, Earl and Harriet (Neus) Coggins. She attended Austin Senior High School, where she was active in extracurricular activities such as drama club and orchestra. She graduated in 1944 and started working at Wold’s Drug Store. It was then that she met the love of her life, Roger Dixon.  They were married at St. Augustine Church on November 1, 1947, with a celebration to follow at the Hormel Historic Home.  

In 1952, Roger enlisted in the Air Force. During his three years in active duty, Ann and Roger traveled around the country and enjoyed their adventures from shore to shore. After Rogers’ discharge, they continued their travels, visiting friends and family across the country. They also enjoyed their annual trips to Mexico. After Roger passed away in 1985, Ann continued traveling the world with her sister, Jean.

Ann and Roger’s four children were born from 1953 through 1959. After they were all in school, Ann went back to work as a clerk at Ankeny’s Mini Mart by Skinner’s Hill, where she worked until it closed. During this time, she was a valued volunteer in all facets of the children’s lives, including chaperone, PTA, Brownies, Girl Scouts, and homeroom parent. 

Ann dedicated her life to helping others. In 2015, Vision 2020 recognized her for her years of volunteer service. She worked at the Hormel Historic Home for over 35 years. In 2021she was presented with the HHH Legacy Award for her outstanding service and for being an inspiring role model.  Ann also worked at the Austin Senior Center reception desk, welcoming all the members and guests. She retired in 2020 because of the COVID closures. 

Ann loved being social and throughout the years, would meet friends for card clubs, bowling, golfing, and birthday celebrations. She was active in the local clubs, like the Eagles, Moose Lodge, VFW, and the American Legion. In recent years, she enjoyed playing Farkle and Bingo with her friends at St. Mark’s. She enjoyed cousin’s breakfasts and appreciated her time with family.  She especially appreciated cousin Chuck, when they would do their weekly shopping and lunch stops. Chuck always made sure she got everything she needed for the coming week.

Ann was a member of the St. Augustine Catholic Church. She looked forward to her meetings with the church representative who came to St. Mark’s every Tuesday for group blessings. 

Most of all, Ann cherished her family and was happiest when they were all gathered around her, laughing and loving each other. 

Ann is survived by her daughter, Deb (Tambo) Dixon of Nevis, West Indies; son, Dan (Laurie) Dixon of Camarillo, California; daughter-in-law, Donna (Leroy) King of Virginia; grandchildren, Chad (Patricia), Dion, Jaime, Shelley, Angie (Jason), Jordan (Michelle), Nathan (Susan); eight great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Harriet Coggins; her husband, Roger Dixon in 1985; sons, Larry and Randy; grandson, Brandon; and sister, Jean.