Obituary of Gary Arthur Dickson

How do you sum up a man's life in one day, one moment, or one obituary? The truth is, you can't. Gary Arthur Dickson loved the outdoors and a simple way of life. He spent his last days breathing the cool Martinez air and eating his favorite fried prawns before passing away from cancer at his home on March 15, 2014 surrounded by his beloved family. Gary enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: the sun at his back, a cold Bud Light in his hand, laughter radiating from his home, the love of his wife, Rita, and the sounds of Willie Nelson playing on the radio. He cherished the outdoors and felt at home hunting at Deerlick Springs, fishing and camping with his friends and family. Gary was most comfortable in his beloved garage, where the treasures of his life surround the walls and dangle from the rafters, each piece telling a story of years lived and a life enjoyed to the fullest. The garage door was always open, indicating a direct invitation for everyone to stop by and share a beer, spend time telling stories, watch the Giants or 49er's play, and just enjoy the company of this man at ease with his life. Gary was born on May 6, 1938 in Seattle, Washington to Delber and Zelda Dickson (deceased). After joining the Navy in 1957, Gary married his one true love, Rita Lenora Blair (deceased), in 1958 and, in the 50-plus years they spent together, raised three daughters that possess their parents' strength, courage, and beauty. He wasn't a boastful man but he was a strong and respected figure who cherished the role of Daddy to his girls. Gary is survived by his brother Richard "Dickie" Dickson; three daughters and their husbands: Trina DelCupolo (Chris), Jeannie Orrock (Dan), and Cindy Fuller (Scott); nine grandchildren: Rachel Schneck, Angela Espinosa, Mandee Orrock, Jacob Dickson, Ben Orrock, Danielle Orrock, Chais Fuller, Brandi Fuller, and Trent Fuller; five great-grandchildren: Brayden Orrock, Kailaya McNeill, Daniel-Scott Fuller, Mia Schncek, Kingston Fuller, and a Baby Fuller forthcoming. Gary Arthur Dickson is gone now and the garage door sits closed leaving a legacy for his family to remember him by, re-tell the stories of his life, and carry on his love to the next generation. Friends and family are invited to an informal gathering on Friday, March 21, 2014 at 2:00 pm at Memory Gardens Cemetery (2011 Arnold Industrial Way, Concord).