By GEORGIA WESTGARTH
HE MAY not have worn the red and white suit but to Cranbourne he was Santa Claus.
Keith Dickson embraced the Christmas spirit in a way no one else did.
He dressed his house in bright lights and dressed his close mate Garry Banks in a long white beard and a big black belt so he could do what he loved most, give.
For decades Mr Dickson would spread the Christmas spirit with his wife of more than 30 years Joan Lyall, also known as Mrs Claus, and together with Mr Banks they were the epitome of Christmas.
Monahans Road neighbour Andrea Bailey recalls Mr Dickson as an “amazing local hero”.
“He got Garry to dress up for him so he could help give out his gifts and enjoy talking to everyone,” Ms Bailey said.
“It was a tradition for so many people and will always be remembered at Christmas time.”
Mr Dickson passed away on Sunday 21 February.
Ms Bailey said Keith “made Christmas something to look forward to for many”.
“He would collect money from those visiting his lights and donate it to local charities,” she said.
“Keith was known as Mr Claus and you can bet the locals knew him.
“He brought joy into a community which decades ago was considered disadvantaged and year after year his displays were eagerly anticipated.
“Now those kids drag their kids to see his display and visit Santa. People are shocked and devastated.”
Ms Bailey is proud to call Keith a mentor to her husband, Sean.
“Last year my husband and I were in the top 10 Christmas light displays in Melbourne and we are continuing Keith’s legacy,” she said.
A Facebook page has been set up in honour of Keith.
Visit A tribute to Cranbourne’s own Santa “Keith Dickson”.
