Roy Dixon Obituary – Death: Father of Former Manchester City Player Lee Michael Dixon, Roy Dixon Passed Away

Roy Dixon Obituary; Manchester City Football fans and the community at large are in mourning following the unexpected passing of Roy Dixon, the father of former Chester City and Arsenal player Lee Michael Dixon. Roy Dixon, who was a former Manchester City goalkeeper, hung up his football boots in the late 1960s and embarked on a remarkable journey that led him to become a master butcher and the Chairman of the renowned Manchester Rusk Company (MRC), known for its brand, The Flava People. In this article, we’ll explore the life and legacy of Roy Dixon, his contributions to the food industry, and the impact he had on his family.

Early Life and Football Career

Roy Dixon’s journey began on the football field, where he displayed his skills as a goalkeeper. He was part of the Manchester City Football Club in the late 1960s, a period that saw him play second fiddle to the legendary Bert Trautmann. While he may not have made it into Manchester City’s starting eleven, he was an integral part of the club’s reserves. However, in 1969, he made a life-changing decision to retire from football and pursue his childhood passion—cooking.

Transition to Butchery and Culinary Success

Upon retiring from professional football, Roy Dixon traded his goalkeeper gloves for butcher blocks. He delved into the world of butchery and, in 1976, laid the foundation for what would become the renowned Manchester Rusk Company, later known as The Flava People. The company initially specialised in selling biscuit rusk, a crucial ingredient in sausages. Roy’s commitment and entrepreneurial spirit, combined with the support of his family, led to the transformation of the business.

Family Involvement and Generational Success

Roy Dixon’s dedication to his craft and the business world extended to his family. His youngest son, Lee Michael Dixon, who would later become a BBC football analyst, followed in his father’s footsteps and pursued a career in football, playing for Arsenal and the English national team. Despite the different paths they took, Roy’s eldest son, Gary Dixon, chose to work alongside his father in the butchery business.

Together, Roy and Gary worked tirelessly to develop ready-to-use marinade products that revolutionized the meat industry. Their first breakthrough came with the introduction of Chinese seasoning for spare ribs, a product that resonated with the growing popularity of barbecues. This innovation breathed new life into the butchery industry by turning what was once considered waste into a sought-after delicacy.

The Rise of The Manchester Rusk Company (MRC)

From humble beginnings, MRC, under the leadership of Roy Dixon and his family, evolved into a multi-million-pound enterprise and a major player in the UK’s market for sauces, glazes, marinades, and seasonings. The company’s annual production includes over 2.3 million kilograms of glazes, marinades, coatings, and seasonings, as well as 500,000 liters of sauces. The addition of Roy’s grandsons, Scott and Charlie, marks the third generation of the Dixon family’s involvement in the business, solidifying the company’s legacy.

Impact on the Butchery Industry

Roy and Gary Dixon’s innovative approach to marinades and seasonings not only transformed their business but also rejuvenated the butchery industry as a whole. Their dedication to quality and their ability to identify emerging market trends led to the creation of products that not only enhanced the flavor of meats but also contributed to reducing waste in the industry.

One of their most notable achievements was convincing butchers to leave more meat on spare ribs, making them suitable for seasoning with their new rub. This simple yet ingenious idea not only saved butchers money but also aligned with the growing consumer preference for seasoned ribs, particularly for barbecues and grilling.

Lee Michael Dixon: A Football Legacy

Lee Michael Dixon, born on March 17, 1964, in England, inherited his father’s passion for football. Growing up, he often watched Manchester City games at Maine Road, where his father, Roy, served as a goalkeeper for the club. However, Lee’s football journey took a different route as he joined the youth ranks of local club Burnley. From there, he progressed to the senior squad and later signed with Bury.

Lee Michael Dixon’s talent and determination on the field eventually caught the attention of Stoke City, where he played a pivotal role as a defensive partner alongside Steve Bould. His impressive performances led to him being scouted by Arsenal, and in November 1987, he joined the club after Arsenal’s dominant 3-0 victory over Stoke in the League Cup Fourth Round.

Dixon’s career at Arsenal saw him become an integral part of the team, contributing to their success during his time with the club. His commitment to excellence on the football field mirrored the dedication his father, Roy, displayed in his culinary endeavors.

Roy Dixon’s Legacy Lives On

The passing of Roy Dixon marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through his family and the thriving business he helped build. His journey from the football pitch to the butchery counter is a testament to the resilience and adaptability that define remarkable individuals. Roy Dixon’s contributions to both the sporting and culinary worlds serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and entrepreneurs alike.

In conclusion, Roy Dixon’s life story is a remarkable one, filled with passion, dedication, and innovation. From his early days as a footballer to his successful career in the food industry, he demonstrated the ability to embrace change and pursue his passions with unwavering determination. His legacy, both on and off the field, will be remembered by those who knew him, and his impact on the butchery industry and the success of The Manchester Rusk Company will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.