Rachel (Simon) Dixon Fondly Remembered as a Model Student, Leader, and Friend
WPS Mourns the Tragic Loss of 2004 Alumnus Who Was Always Smiling
Launch the media gallery 1 playerWahoo Public Schools joins many others in mourning the loss of a very talented member of the Class of 2004. News reached the district yesterday that Rachel (Simon) Dixon was killed in a weather-related automobile accident on a highway near Norfolk, Nebraska.
Rachel was close to completing her studies at Wayne State College, and had aspirations to become a teacher and coach.
The 2003 WHS Homecoming Queen who is listed in her senior yearbook as the "girl every parent wants their son to date", Rachel was known for being a very well-rounded, likeable student, and a positive leader/role model for her peers. Rachel was an active member of the National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), and Choir. She was also passionate about softball and basketball. Rachel received numerous awards for her performance (including MVP in softball and record-setting 377 assists in basketball) and was named multiple times to the All-State teams in both sports.
"Students like Rachel are what makes our profession so rewarding. Her former teachers here at WHS have nothing but fond memories of her dedication, an attitude that was always positive, and her talents in so many areas. This is a very difficult loss for those of us who had the opportunity to teach her," said former WHS English Instructor David Privett.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 21, at 10:00 a.m. in the Wahoo High School Gymnasium. Visitation will be held from 3:00-8:00 p.m. at Pruss-Nabity Funeral Home in Wahoo (911 N. Linden). Interment will follow the funeral at Indian Mound Cemetery.
The thoughts and prayers of the administration and staff of Wahoo Public Schools go out to Rachel's husband Moe, and to her entire family. She will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.
WPS Mourns the Loss of a Talented Class of 2004 Alumnus
Jason Stevens Millard South High School | Mar 18, 2008 | I always enjoyed watching Rachel on the basketball court. She was always focused determined and in control. She was the same way in music. She never settled for “good enough.” She always took charge when she had lessons for B-Sharps. She had a list of things she wanted to work on. I wish every student had her work ethic. I am deeply saddened by her passing, but I am very thankful for the time I had to know her. My prayers will be with all of her friends and family. |
| Rebecca Giglio-Starkrstark@esu2.orgWahoo Middle School | Mar 19, 2008 | I was so sad to hear of Rachel's accident. It was an honor to be her teacher in 8th grade. She was smart, respectful,athletic and involved in her school. It's always hard to understand why such a young and vital person is taken from us. My prayers are with all her family, especially her brothers and Beth. I have fond memories of all of them. Rachel's passing leaves a tremendous hole in all our hearts. |
| Jason Libaljlibal@esu2.orgWahooPrincipal/Activities Director | Mar 19, 2008 | How Rachel will be missed. What a great person!!! I enjoyed so much watching her develop into such a great human being. She had an undeniable competitive spirit. She always gave everything she had in every situation. In addition, I will always remember how caring she was for those around her. She had an innate ability to take those of less fortune, put them under her wing, and to care for them. My thoughts and prayers go out the the Simon family. Rachel's passing has left a void in all of our lives. She will be very missed!!!! This quote reminds me of Rachel - “Everyone tries to define this thing called Character. It's not hard. Character is doing what's right when nobody's looking.” She always did the right thing whether people were looking or not. |
| Amber (Petska) Lihsamber_tcreations@yahoo.com | Mar 20, 2008 | I just would like Rachel's family to know how tremendously she is going to be missed. Rachel and I weren't really close but she was such an inspiration. When I lived in Norfolk it was such a joy to run in to her and her bright smile, which I rarely saw her without! I feel proud and honored to have had her in my class and life. Rachel your friends and family are in my thoughts and prayers. |
| Brandon Gauntlilgaunt@hotmail.com | Mar 23, 2008 | Rachel was the sweetest most loving person i have ever met. I cant believe she is gone. She was always Smiling. She always loved Jesus Christ. |
| Jane Wieboldjwiebold@esu2.orgWahooElementary Principal | Mar 24, 2008 | Rachel was the first student I met when I came to Wahoo. She was always smiling. I can't remember a time when she was unhappy. It was a joy to watch her grow into such a friendly young woman. She will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. |