- Date Of Birth: May 22, 1936
- Date Of Death: April 16, 2016
- State: Texas
Phil Dalton was born May 22, 1936 in San Antonio, the son of Ralph T. Dalton and Mildred (Robinson) Dalton. He grew up in San Antonio and left there to attend the University of Texas at Austin.
While attending college and developing what would be a life-long passion for the Longhorns, he participated in the school’s ROTC program and began a path that would lead to a career in the Army. During one of Phil’s summer breaks from school, he ended up working as a speaker phone salesman for AT&T — it was at this summer job where Phil met and courted the love of his life — Eileen Knutson.
Phil and Eileen were married on September 14, 1957 in Kenedy Texas. Two years later, Phil received his commission as a lieutenant in the United States Army. As a Transportation Corps Officer, Phil deployed twice to Vietnam where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal (with oak leaf cluster) and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry (with Palm). Other awards included the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, a Meritorious Unit Citation, and several other awards.
Throughout a 20+ year career, Phil and Eileen would be stationed in Alaska, Germany, and various posts in the lower 48. Phil eventually retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from Fort Hood. Phil enjoyed a second career serving as a human resources professional for various central Texas companies including Griggs Equipment, ABC Truck Rental, and Materials Transportation Company and spent his final working years with Wilson Art.
Throughout his life, Phil had a passion for a wide range of interests. He had a love for music that infected not only his children (his son is an accomplished musician and both daughters are blessed with amazing vocal talents), but also those lucky enough to bear witness to his talents. He was a gifted guitar player who possessed a wonderful singing voice. Whether in his early years performing with his friends, or in later years singing with his church family or demonstrating his amazing player piano, Phil blessed others by sharing his passion for music.
Phil’s other passions were diverse. For instance, while stationed in Germany, Phil learned from a master craftsman (Herr Heim) how to refurbish and refinish antique clocks. Phil meticulously restored many timeless antiques for friends and family. He also loved to hunt and fish and always welcomed the opportunity to wet a hook or sit in a deer stand. He loved to travel with Eileen, and their adventures took them across Europe and to many other exotic locations. As a Christian, he was passionate about his church family, serving in various church leadership positions throughout his life, including most recently, a position as the president of the congregation at First Lutheran in Belton.
A common theme across Phil’s life was one of passion. He was passionate about the Army and our Nation. He was passionate about music and other interests. He was passionate about his friends, and perhaps most of all, he was passionate about his family. He was especially proud of his children and grandchildren and remained actively involved in their lives. On top of that, Phil found the time and energy to serve as a surrogate grandfather for many of the neighborhood children. In return, Phil was deeply loved by many and he will be sorely missed.
Phil was preceded in death by his parents (Ralph and Mildred Dalton), his brother Johnny, and two nephews (Darren and Daryl Dalton). His survivors include his wife Eileen Dalton, one son Jeff Dalton; two daughters Laura Dalton and Lynne Pippin and grandchildren Wes, Rebecca, Alex, Lindsay, and Arnold, along with other extended family.
