Irma Maxine Dixon

Irma Maxine’s Tapestry of Life

Irma Maxine Dixon, aged 92 years of Moose Jaw, SK, passed away on Thursday, November 27th, 2014.  She was predeceased by her parents, Rena and Max Riecken; brother, Chet Riecken; sister, Roma Parks; chosen daughter, Andrea; and granddaughter, Glena Moria.  Irma leaves to cherish her memory, her daughter, Faye Moria (Lorenz) Fedrau of Medicine Hat, AB; grandchildren, Crystal Ferguson and Sandra Christensen; great-grandchildren: Nicholas (Tiko), Jesse, Adam, Anna, Odette and Hari; sister, Dorathea Little; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

If mom could have seen the tapestry on which her life was woven, she would feel satisfied with the purpose to which she had been chosen.  I believe God is well pleased with her as she served through her many roles – daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.  She has been there for all of us – sharing her patience, love and understanding.  The love of her life was her husband, Ray Dixon, who passed away in February 2002.  Family, whether linked by blood, marriage, adoption, or affection, may be defined as connection, trust, support, unconditional love – providing a haven in a troubled world.  That is the kind of extended family mom offered – her door was always open to those in need.

Mom was big on prayer and daily devotionals!  She had been raised in a Lutheran environment so became baptised and a member of the church.  She had a close relationship with her Saviour!  My fondest memories were to see her sitting in her chair by the big front window first thing in the morning – giving thanks for her blessings and sharing prayers for those of concern.

Mom enjoyed many accomplishments as she contributed to the enrichment of the lives around her:

President of the Prairie Pals Homecraft Club in 1938 – excerpts from their creed:  “I believe in the Homecraft Club work because it will help me to become a useful citizen……working together in a group…..becoming proficient in proper homemaking…..willing to work hard and sacrifice myself for belief in my community, province and country……. taking responsibility for their development.”

• Awards for her beautiful penmanship.
• Private Secretary for Mr. Taite, Minister of Economic Affairs at Parliament in Edmonton AB in 1946.
• Office clerk for Eaton’s in Moose Jaw.
• Alterations for Ideal Men’s Wear in Moose Jaw – Ray was Salesman.
• As a seamstress, she made matching dresses for herself and for me.
• Excellent hostess and cook – even in the confines of her small house.
• Her favourite Christmas presents to friends were decorated bread rolls in the shape of a tree.
• Mom and dad enjoyed many years of square dancing, being members of a local rock-picking club, and travelling in Canada and USA with their camper.
• Collected small birds which she displayed on a pencil tree in her home and became known as the “bird lady.”
• Enjoyed playing games – tile rummy, card games, aggravation – a few of her favourites.  Her neighbour, Ivy Morris, would call to see if the “casino” was open and would hop over the fence to share the game of the week.
• Participated in the Christian Women’s group for many years.
• As a member of the Red Hat Society, she visited care homes and hospital sharing purple shawls and a red hat to honorary members.  She was known as the “Duchess of Hugs” as she always had a hug for everyone.
• Member of a number of singing groups:   Magic Harmony, Golden Voices, and Heritage Singers (formerly Sons and Daughters of the Pioneers).
• Attended regularly the music, theatre, craft and tea events in the city.
• Always a classy lady and coordinated her outfits appropriately.  I loved the smell of her Musk perfume.
• For years, Saturday morning was breakfast “out” with friends – all were welcome!  Mom enjoyed going out every day – even if just to window shop.
• Danced at the Cosmo and Timothy jam sessions since 2002.
• Accompanied me while entertaining at the senior residences with Fabian and groups – she shared her uplifting spirit.
• At the age of 85 started to do acrylic painting – winning 2nd and 3rd place in the Moose Jaw Exhibition.
• As a resident at Extendicare, mom enjoyed sitting by the front door to greet the visitors – we teased her that she was the “Walmart Greeter.”  She had a good sense of humour and was always a good sport.

We will miss you, mom, but death is not the end.  To consider that after the death of the body the spirit perishes, is like imagining that a bird in a cage will be destroyed if the cage is broken, though the bird has nothing to fear from the destruction of the cage.  Our body is like the cage, and the spirit is like the bird – if the cage becomes broken, the bird will continue and exist:  its feelings will be even more powerful, its perceptions greater, and its happiness increased.  It reaches a paradise of delights, because for the thankful bird there is no paradise greater than freedom from the cage.  God bless you, mom!

A Celebration of Irma’s Living Legacy will be held on Tuesday, December 2nd, 2014 at 1:30 p.m. in Moose Jaw Funeral Home.  Reverend Doug Hallman will officiate and a private family interment at Rosedale Cemetery will precede the memorial service.  As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations in Irma’s name may be made to Extendicare Moose Jaw, 1151 Coteau St W, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 5G5.  Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane.  Todd Sjoberg, Funeral Director 306-693-4550