Hamilton County lost one of its greatest last week when Dr. Jim Dillon passed away at the age of 83.
Doc Dillon was a true leader in the medical field and local government. He was born and raised in Noblesville where his family has deep roots.
He graduated from DePauw University and the IU School of Medicine before serving two years in the U.S. Navy, then returning to the IU Medical School to become a professor. He took a major role in establishing the Interventional Cardiology Program and served as its director until 2004.
In Marion County, Jim joined the Wayne Township Volunteer Fire Department, always promoting emergency medical services and eventually serving on the Indiana Emergency Medical Commission, even chairing the commission for six years.
In 1985, Jim and his wife, Sue, moved to Carmel. Within a few years, he and Sue were instrumental in creating the award-winning Carmel Clay Parks system. Jim also served for 17 years on the Clay Township Board, always supporting the fire department and its emergency medical service.
He also served a year on the Hamilton County Council. Jim was always modest about his accomplishments, but certainly must have approved of his township board successor, Matt Snyder, for taking a leadership role in continuing a legacy of promoting park expansion and fire department facilities.
Jim was always encouraging to this writer in matters brought to the readers’ attention in the County Line column. While it may sound trite to say “he will be missed,” but in the case of Jim Dillon, it is so extremely true.
Columnist Fred Swift has worked in newspapers for decades. He has been sharing his opinions in the pages of The Reporter since it began. Email him at swiftfred19@gmail.com.