Sadly I have to report the passing of Robert Dixon also known as Northeagle
Robert passed away yesterday morning in hospital after a series of illnesses over the past two years
Robert was the author of a number of books on airmen and Squadrons from the North of England
These include “607 Squadron – A Shade of Blue”, “A Gathering of Eagles”, “Airmen of the North”
Despite battling terminal illness Robert still managed to complete his final book at the end of 2014.
“The Diary of a Hurricane Pilot in the Battle in the Battle of France” which is based on the diary of William Francis Blackadder, a Flight Commander with 607 Squadron.
Robert was always willing to share his knowledge and information through various forums such as this one, 12 O’ Clock High, RAF Commands to name a few
Robert also contributed several articles to Flypast.
I am very grateful to Robert’s widow for allowing me to make the wider aviation community aware of these sad events
By: Thunderbird167 - 3rd May 2016 at 18:23
I am pleased to confirm that thanks to the generosity of Robert’s widow Shirley that his spirit will live on.
Robert painted numerous oil paintings of local aviation subjects. Some of these are now passing to the museum at Usworth
Amongst these is an oil on canvas of Francis Blackadder’s Hurricane at Usworth following the action on the 15th August 1940. This will be accompanied by painting of Spitfires of 72 squadron.
I am hopeful in the near future of arranging for all of his works to be displayed for the first time as Robert painted for the enjoyment and not the reward and thus the majority are unseen
By: Arabella-Cox - 19th February 2015 at 09:57
Sad news. His books and articles are a great source and inspiration for those interested in the aviation history of the North East, and indeed for those with an interest in aviation history in general.
Regards
Simon
By: Chris D - 18th February 2015 at 22:43
I’m sorry to hear this news, sincere condolences to all his family and friends. A battle well fought by the sound of things, in the spirit of those he wrote about.
I had worked with Robert on several crash sites in Northumberland and had helped solve various locations of sites.
It is sad news to hear of his passing, he will be missed, an influential source for aviation history.
An inspiration to all
Chris
By: Ant.H - 12th February 2015 at 19:47
I’m sorry to hear this news, sincere condolences to all his family and friends. A battle well fought by the sound of things, in the spirit of those he wrote about.
By: Whitley_Project - 12th February 2015 at 17:25
I’m sorry to hear that – Robert will be missed.
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February 12, 2015 at 1:26 pm