DICKSON – Parker Archibald (Arch)
February 22, 1927 – August 31, 2010
Parker Archibald (Arch) Dickson passed away on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at 83 years of age in Calgary. Survived by June, his wife of 61 years, children Peter (Chris), Margaret, Myrla Bulman (Steve), Barb Homer (Don) and grandchildren Stephanie and Shauna Bulman, and Jeff, Amy and Michael Homer, sister Jean Fox, many dear cousins, nieces and nephews, and Secret, the last in a lifetime’s worth of well-loved dogs. Predeceased by his parents Hugh and Annie Dickson and his brother Hugh Jr.
Born in Onslow, Nova Scotia on February 22, 1927, Arch first came west as a teenager to the cattle ranches of his four Gilchrist uncles. Captivated by the scale of the prairie landscape, he convinced June, his bride-to-be, to join him in 1949. After several years working on ranches with cousins and friends they moved to the city. Time as an insurance adjuster allowed Arch to explore the province before he started his own business as a service station operator with BA, Gulf and finally PetroCanada. He was National President of the Automotive Retailers Association during the energy crisis of the mid 1970s and received awards for exceptional levels of customer service and corporate professionalism.
His Maritime nature showed in community contribution. He was a founding elder of St. Andrews United Church, a devoted driver with Meals on Wheels and Neighbourlink, and delighted in a year as a chaperone for the Hidy and Howdy mascots of the 1988 Olympics. All those who met Arch will remember his firm handshake and clear blue eyes meeting theirs. He was truly interested in what was happening in the lives of all those he met and cherished strong ties with family, friends and work colleagues. He loved to discuss world and local events over coffee and his thoughtful insights will be missed.
A Memorial Service will be held at St. Andrew’s United Church (924 Heritage Drive S.W.) on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. If friends so desire, donations may be made in Arch’s memory to Southern Alberta Cancer Research Institute at the University of Calgary (3280 Hospital Drive N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6) or Calgary Meals on Wheels (3610 Macleod Trail S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 2P9). Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com.
In living memory of Arch Dickson, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.
Print Obituary & Condolences
Cecilia and I are saddened to hear of Archs
passing and extend our condolences to all
Family members.
As mentioned a handshake to remembered.
John
Dear June,
We are saddened to know that Arch has passed away. How often I (Carol) think of our times together as we cleared out our dear Ruby’s home. We always enjoyed our all-too-brief visits with you and Arch as we picked up Meals On Wheels.
We express our sympathy to you and your family with Arch’s passing.
Affectionately, Doug & Carol
To June and Family,
Sorry I am unable to make it to the memorial for Archie. I am looking after my 3 year old granddaughter, Cypress while her Mama, Kristy is away helping her brother, Vance move back to the Dominican Republic.
Wanted to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity Archie and all of you gave me the summer I spent working as a gas pump jockey in Calgary. Your family made me so welcome and it was an important and maturing experience for me.
Archie will surely be missed. He made a difference in the lives of many.
Sincerely,
Debra Curry
Red Deer
Mrs. Dickson, Margaret, Barb, Myrla, Peter and families:
So sorry to hear of the passing of a wonderful, gentle man. Mr. Dickson (as he will always be to me) was a man of few words, but those he spoke were, in my mind, always worth paying attention to. I have great memories of being treated to a “ski” with the Dicksons – or hanging out at the beach or cabin with your gang for a while, away from the maddening (resort) crowd – and Mr. Dickson always there, interested and engaged in the comings and goings – a calm, quiet overseer.
I am so glad to have had the opportunity to have had a visit earlier this year.
My thoughts are with you all,
Lori
Mrs. Dickson, Barb, Don, Jeff, Amy and Michael,
We were very sorry to hear about Mr. Dickson. We know he was a very special family man. We are thinking of all of you and keeping you in our prayers at this difficult time.
Love, Jane, James, Katie, Lauren and Nicholas
To my dear friends the Dicksons, I am so sorry for the loss of your Dad, and Husband, Grandfather and Friend. I was glad to know him and treasure the years of memories with your family, Love Cook
To the family
Today we bid farewell to a man who will be remembered with much love and respect by all who were fortunate to know him.It is a sad day,but we celebrate Arch’s long and very productive,upbeat life.
Unfortunately I cannot attend today’s funeral,however, I will say a prayer for this very special BA/Gulf/Gas Gang friend.I,like so many others,will miss him,however, have fond memories of the good times.
Love to you all
Ted Oliver
We are sorry to learn of Archie’s passing. He was such a good friend to the Pennocks and my mother Agnes. Our hearts and prayers are with your family.