Dixie Lee Dirkse

Dixie Lee Dirkse, age 87, of Milan, Michigan, passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025, surrounded by her family.

She was born on August 4, 1938, on the outskirts of Chicago, Illinois, and was raised in Harvey, Illinois, and later Baldwin, Michigan. She was one of three children, alongside her siblings Darlene and Thomas Robinson.

Dixie and her husband, Ernest Dirkse, shared 31 years of marriage, living together in the countryside of Ypsilanti where they created countless cherished memories in their home. They were fortunate to have wonderful neighbors and were longtime members of Calvary Bible Church in Ypsilanti. Dixie loved dining out and exploring different restaurants, a simple joy she often shared with her loved ones.

After Ernest’s passing, she relocated to Milan, Michigan, to be near close friends and quickly formed strong bonds with her new neighbors. She enjoyed spending time outside in the gazebo, chatting with her friends.

Deeply devoted to her faith, Dixie loved taking scenic drives through the countryside on Sundays after church, appreciating the beauty of the landscape. She also loved shopping at Sam’s Club and spending quality weekends with her family. An avid reader, one of her favorite authors was Nicholas Sparks.

She is survived by her children, Debbie Tichenor and Sherry Palermo; Ernie’s Children, Roger (Lori) Dirkse, Karen (Curtis Phillips) Dirkse, and Brenda (Mark) Tuscano; grandchildren, Joshua (Cynthia) Dirkse, and Caleb (Joellen) Dirkse; Alexandria (fiancé, Andrew Carey) Dirkse; and great-grandchildren, Cody (Emma) Dirkse, Olivia Dirkse, and Carter Dirkse. She is also survived by her siblings, Darlene Kirchner and Thomas (Nancy) Robinson; and her cousins, Betty Cote, Victor Lucas, Broc (Susan) Cote, and Scott (Petra) Cote.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ernie Dirkse; her son, James Kranz; cousins-in-law, Herb Cote and Pat Lucas.