Justin Dixon Tribute
Justin's creativity enlivened the neighborhood. The neighborhood is a lasting and tangible tribute to Justin.
Justin James Dixon passed away in the neighborhood he envisioned and lovingly created. The Mercado District of Menlo Park is now part of his legacy. Justin is survived by his husband, Dale Thompson; his parents, Jerry and Marjorie Dixon; his sisters, Ashlyn Dixon Schaub and Kira Dixon Weinstein; brothers-in-law, James Schaub and Adam Weinstein; and his nieces and nephews, Brigette, Derek, Hayden, Anya, and Arlo.
Justin earned a liberal arts degree from Bennington College in Bennington, Vermont, followed by a Master's degree from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California, where he continued toward a Ph.D. in Mythologic Studies with an emphasis in Depth Psychology. His doctoral dissertation centered on near-death experiences.
After college, Justin took his creative talents to Hollywood, where he worked as a screenwriter. He returned to Arizona to work with his father on development concepts focused on building a sense of place. In 2003, he saw an RFP to develop a parcel of land that aligned perfectly with his ideas, values, and purpose. From that point, Justin devoted himself to creating a proposal for a unique and inclusive neighborhood that would foster community beyond its plot lines, a place that would be architecturally harmonious and aesthetically thoughtful - interspersed with welcoming spaces for all to enjoy. His inspired concepts for building community received a unanimous vote, allowing him to break ground on what he named The Mercado District of Menlo Park. He remained steadfast to the original vision of making it relatable and timeless. For the residents and the many people that stroll through the neighborhood taking pictures of their families, walking their dogs, or riding through on a bike tour - the design, execution, and vitality of this place are instantly recognized as something extremely special; a true and lasting testament to Justin's visionary approach to life.





A ceremony honoring Justin's life and contributions was held by family and friends on October 8 2023 in the East Plaza
