Willard "Paul" Dix

Willard “Paul” Dix, 78, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on August 1, 2025.

Born in Paulding, Ohio, on November 13, 1946, to Lewis Willard Dix and Mary Louise (Eckard) Dix. Paul lived a life marked by love, laughter, and devotion to family.

At just 17 years old, Paul enlisted in the United States Army and embarked on the demanding path of Ranger training, preparing him for elite combat operations. He went on to serve with distinction during the Vietnam War as a member of the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile)—the first unit to deploy helicopters extensively for troop movement and combat support.

During his tour of duty, Paul served as both a radio operator and a Huey door gunner, roles that placed him directly in the line of fire and required exceptional courage and precision. His service included participation in the Battle of Ia Drang in 1965, the first major battle between U.S. forces and the North Vietnamese Army. This engagement marked a turning point in the war and demonstrated the effectiveness and the brutal cost of air mobility in jungle warfare. Paul’s contributions in this historic battle and throughout his tour exemplify the bravery and resilience of those who served in Vietnam. His story is a testament to the grit and sacrifice of a generation.

His courage and commitment during this intense and pivotal battle exemplify the bravery of the many soldiers who served during the Vietnam War. Paul's military experience laid the foundation for a lifetime of discipline, resilience, and service.

On August 3, 1968, Paul married the love of his life, Georgie Lee Nichols, in Carson City, Nevada. Their union marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership built on love, resilience, and shared values. Through the many chapters of Paul's life, Georgie remained his steadfast companion and source of strength.

Paul began his career at General Motors in Fremont, California, where he worked for sixteen years until the plant's closure. Following this transition, he pursued further education and earned an Associate of Arts degree in Electronics, demonstrating his commitment to growth and adaptability.

When the Fremont plant reopened as NUMMI (New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc.), a joint venture between General Motors and Toyota, Paul joined the team and contributed to a project focused on CAD drafting and design. His work played a key role in streamlining auto assembly production processes.

Over his twenty-five years at NUMMI, Paul distinguished himself through consistent excellence and reliability, earning numerous awards for maintaining over a decade of perfect attendance. His dedication and contributions left a lasting impact on the organization and many co-workers.

Paul retired in 2010, capping off a remarkable career marked by innovation, perseverance, and professionalism. Paul found joy in the simple pleasures of life—especially spending time with his family, camping, fishing, and hunting. His warmth, humor, and quiet strength will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Georgie Lee Dix; his son, Will Dix and his wife Stephanie; his daughter, Shillean Abbott; grandchildren Tyler Abbott, Emily Dix, and Charlotte Dix; and great-granddaughter Ember Abbott. Paul’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and the family he cherished deeply.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at English Funeral Chapel, located at 1133 N Fourth St, Coeur D’Alene, Idaho. Family and friends are invited to gather in celebration of Paul’s life and the memories he leaves behind.