John Arnold Dickson

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved father, John Arnold Dickson, on May 23, 2023, at St. Mary's Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving children. His final days were made more comfortable by the presence and support of many family members, a testament to the deep love and unity in our family.

Born on January 20, 1934, he lived a life dedicated to his family, community, and country leading by enthusiastic example. His kind and loving nature has left an enduring legacy.

He was an Army Intelligence Russian Language Specialist during the Korean War. This led to being stationed in West Germany while translating Russian radio for the Army.  (He was thrilled and deeply humbled to be an Badger Honor Flight member in September of 2022.) After his army service, his diverse careers covered sales (home products for Fuller Brush and Cutco Cutlery, and law books for Matthew Bender and Clark Boardman Callahan), and education (teacher, principal, and superintendent of schools). He also founded MidWest Legal Publisher, which was highly successful. In every role, he enriched lives.

John had a lifelong passion for classical music.  He played the clarinet, was a self-taught piano player (Bumble Boogie, anyone?), and could pick up nearly any instrument and play a tune. This appreciation for music was shared by his wife and passed on to his kids and grandkids.  Strumming and singing is part of every family gathering.

Preceded in death by his cherished wife, Patricia, their love story continues beyond this earthly realm. Together, they created a foundation of love and respect that continues on in the hearts of their children and their beautiful grand and great grandchildren.  His extraordinary bigheartedness, compassion, and unwavering selflessness touched many lives. His absence will be profoundly felt.

For the family and those that knew him, a gathering at the Waunakee Village Center will be held on Sat. May 27th from 1-4 PM. A time of sharing will take place at 1:30 PM.

Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and kindness during this time of transition and reflection. In lieu of flowers, any in memoriam donations will be combined and presented by the family to an organization dear to John at a later date.