CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Don Dixon, of Auburn, Ill., was crowned King Dad by the Dads Association at its annual banquet Friday (Nov. 12) during Dads Weekend festivities.
Peter Walter Guletsky, of Vernon Hills, Ill., and Peter March, of Peotone, Ill., were honored as finalists at the dinner.
The Dads Association carries on the King Dad tradition originally established by the Illini Union Board more than 30 years ago. The award recognizes one special Dad for his support, encouragement and inspiration. The winner receives an engraved plaque.
Dixon, nominated by his daughter, Ashley Dixon, a junior in chemical engineering. was selected from 25 nominees.
Ashley Dixon wrote: “Hero is the one word I would use to describe my dad. He truly is the one person I admire the most. I love him for his kindness toward others, selflessness and overall attitude toward life.”
Because Dixon and his daughter both are blood type A positive, Don Dixon has donated blood for all of Ashley’s surgeries required to repair her congenital heart condition. Don also makes the hospital visits less formal and scary, and offers his shoulder for her to cry on.
The Dads Association, founded in 1922, is believed to be one of the nation’s longest-serving parent organizations. It supports programs, services and activities that promote the health, safety and well-being of the university community and serves as the parent liaison to campus.
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