Captain Joseph L. Dick, USN, Ret, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2024 with his loving family by his side. He was predeceased by parents, John and Mary Dickshinski, and four brothers; Clem, Eugene, Edward, and Jack, and sister Irene. He is survived by his sister, Dorothy.

Joe was born in Nanticoke, PA in 1928. After moving to Chicago, Joe Dick graduated from Northwestern University in 1952 with a degree in Zoology. In his spare time, he formed the gymnastics team, competed on the collegiate level, and lettered.

He served with distinction for 30 years in the United States Navy, including tours as the Naval Attache and as the Assistant Naval Attache to the US Embassy in Ottawa, Canada. He served on many US Navy ships, including Commanding Officer of the USS Myles C. Fox (DD-829) and Executive Officer of the USS Little Rock (CLG-4). Joe received numerous medals, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Defense Meritorious Medal, the Defense Superior Service Medal, and special recognition from the Secretary of the Navy.

Joe was an active church member and champion for the local church and community. He led his children's church youth groups, lent his support for church suppers and outreach programs, and served as the Sunday School Superintendent at Trinity Episcopal Church, in St Mary's City, MD. He participated in Cursillo. Joe also coached his children's soccer and gymnastics teams and served as PTA president at Friendly High School. Joe was a long-time member of the Lions Club, serving from 1982 to the present. He also served as President of the Lions Club.

After retirement he formed and led various drug and alcohol prevention programs in St Mary's County, MD from 1984-1999, including Winning on Wellness, which he created. Later, along with Tommy McKay, he helped form the only Co-Op Winery in the United States in 2007. His vineyard was his hobby and passion for over 40 years.

In 1982, he and his wife of 70 years, Nancy, purchased and restored St Michael's Manor in Scotland, MD. They ran a bed and breakfast for many years. They had numerous interesting guests over the years including a former Secretary of the Navy.

In 2002, Joe ran for state delegate in district 29B. Although the campaign was ultimately not successful, the entire family participated in the effort.

He is survived by his wife Nancy and five children: Susan Belmore (Glen), David Dickshinski, (Elinor), Dr. Laura Swett, (Dr. Bruce), Jonathan Paul (Maria), Jeff Dickshinski (Trish). Grandchildren: Sean Belmore, Anna Lancaster (CJ), Tim Dickshinski (Pooja Kothari), Ben Dickshinski (Jess Bazzelle), Hannah Dickshinski, Christa Day (Jeff Ballin), Dr. Katherine Aboud (Dr. Assad), Jamie Knecht (Emily), Sarah Dickshinski, Leah Dickshinski. Great Grandchildren: Emilee, Payton, Carlie, Jordan Lancaster, Sami Aboud, and many nieces and nephews.


Memorial Gathering
Trinity Episcopal Church

Friday, July 26, 2024
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
47477 Trinity Church Road
St. Mary's City, MD 20686

Funeral Service
Trinity Episcopal Church

Friday, July 26, 2024
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
47477 Trinity Church Road
St. Mary's City, MD 20686