James F. Dickson

March 10, 1954 - January 12, 2022

James F. Dickson, age 67, passed away on January 12th, 2022, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Jim was born March 10th, 1954, in Trenton, MI, to Dr. John C Dickson and Katherine Taft Strowd. He grew up on Grosse Ile, an island at the mouth of the Detroit River, where he developed a life-long thirst for knowledge, an appreciation of his Scottish heritage, and a solid foundation in the Christian faith. His relationship with God began at the Grosse Ile Presbyterian Church, where he was baptized and confirmed. As the youngest child, he was adventurous and inquisitive, eager to keep up with his three older siblings. Jamey, as he was endearingly called, loved his family dearly and understood the importance of prioritizing relationships with loved ones. In warm weather, his family spent countless hours boating the waters behind their home. He was always excited to spend time with his cousins, often at a family farm in Ohio or ranch in Wyoming. Throughout his childhood, he made many cherished memories exploring the world, from Europe to Mexico, with his family. Jim began his education in the Grosse Ile Public School system, where he explored a variety of interests. He played trumpet in the school band, ran on the track team, and earned a varsity letter for football. He particularly enjoyed The Boy Scout Explorers, where he could experience an array of outdoor activities and perform community service. He discovered a lifelong love of photography as a teen, working on his school’s yearbook. As a young man, he enjoyed traveling with his friends when he was not taking classes at Adrian College. While studying for his BA in Psychology, he was an active figure on campus. He was a member of the psychology club, served as the president of his residence hall, and shared his photography skills with many. He frequently submitted his work in photography contests, often receiving recognition for his work. While he was excited to have a photo published in Rolling Stone’s former College Papers magazine, he was disappointed he could not secure a free subscription. On campus, Jim contributed to the college yearbook, serving as editor in 1976. A highlight of his education was an internship with the Lafayette Clinic in Detroit before graduating in 1977. Following undergrad, Jim worked various positions, gaining experience in the mental health field. During a stint at Lenawee Community Mental Health, he met his wife-to-be, Sally Dunne. After earning his Master’s in Psychology from Eastern Michigan University in 1983, he settled into a career with the Michigan Department of Corrections. Jim was blessed to marry the love of his life, Sally, on August 4th, 1984. Together they worked on updating their 1920’s home, which they shared for 37 years of happy marriage. Jim and Sally completed their family by welcoming two children, Lauren and Scott, into the world. Jim adored being a father and was an active presence throughout his children’s lives. He was a PTO member at Garfield Elementary and completed several wood-working projects for classrooms and fundraising events. Jim happily took responsibility for the school’s yearbook and enjoyed many laughs taking candid photos of the students. He found joy in coaching his kid’s soccer and little league teams. As his children’s interests changed, he became the dedicated Scoutmaster of the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 13, a small troop in Adrian. He was incredibly proud of the seven young men, including his son Scott, who attained the rank of Eagle Scout. As an adult, Jim was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church in Adrian. He shared the church’s lessons as a Sunday school teacher and a frequent liturgist. He contributed to the church community as a deacon and was an eager participant in the Men’s Fellowship Group. In addition, he helped organize many breakfasts and fundraising brunches. Jim concluded his professional career in 2016 when he retired from the Department of Corrections. While in good health, he and his wife traveled, often finding peace in nature. Together they explored the Canadian Maritimes, a coastal region north of Maine, The Carolinas’ picturesque coastline, and hiked the rim of the Grand Canyon. During the pandemic, the couple enjoyed exploring parks and nature preserves closer to home. In retirement, Jim dove into cycling, a longtime hobby. In addition to riding, he found pleasure in bicycle mechanics, once restoring a tandem bicycle. He became highly involved with the non-profit, Re-Bicycle of Lenawee, where he worked diligently to provide affordable and reliable repair services. He enjoyed working with his customers and the opportunity to engage with the public. He took pride in educating others about bicycle safety giving presentations to schools and scout troops. He organized Adrian’s Ride of Silence; an annual spring ride held to remember community members killed while cycling. He volunteered with several rides and participated in even more. Jim twice completed the PALM Ride, pedaling across lower Michigan, from Lake Michigan to Lake Erie. Jim’s active lifestyle prepared him well for the health challenges he would face. As the son of a doctor, he was a strong supporter of medical research and participated in clinical studies when eligible. Jim understood how integral blood donations are to healthcare and was a frequent donor. He taught his children that there is always something new to learn and that learning requires accepting when you are wrong. Jim would go on to fight two separate bouts with cancer. Early detection allowed him to have a higher quality of life in his final years. Early in 2020, Jim began chemotherapy to treat leukemia. Exhaustion from medical treatments did not deter him from community service. After 18 months of treatments, Jim and his family were relieved to learn his cancer had gone into remission. Sadly, Jim would soon contract Covid-19 due to a community outbreak. His compromised immune system not only lessened the protection usually gained through vaccines but also depleted his body of the strength necessary to fight the virus. Nevertheless, over the coming months, Jim fought valiantly through complication after complication as the virus attacked every aspect of his health. Jim’s family could not be more proud of his positive attitude and bravery during the most trying times. The determination with which he fought to return home was an act of love. What wonderful memories we have of a life spent loving each other. He leaves behind his wife Sally (Dunne); his children: Ren and Scott, both of Ypsilanti, MI; siblings: Carol (Dr. Douglas) Woodring of East Palestine, OH; Barry (Sue Webb) of Grosse Pointe, MI; and John III (Jenny) of Louisville, KY. He was reunited with his parents, Dr. John and Katherine, who preceded him in death. Cremation and a private graveside service have taken place. A Celebration of Life service will be scheduled in the spring. In Jim’s memory, please consider donating blood or making a financial contribution to the League of Michigan Bicyclists (LMB.org) or the First Presbyterian Church of Adrian.