Obituary published on Legacy.com by Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory Edgewater on Apr. 19, 2026. Robert J. Dalton, 92, of Davidsonville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, surrounded by family. Born December 3, 1933, in New York, New York, Robert lived a life defined by service, learning, and devotion to family and country. A proud Marine, Robert served with distinction for 32 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. His military career spanned pivotal moments in history, including the Korean War-where he served in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir-and three tours in Vietnam. His commitment to his fellow servicemembers continued well beyond active duty through his involvement with the CAP Unit Veterans Association and The Chosin Few. Following his military retirement, Robert contributed his leadership and expertise to the private sector, holding positions with Lockheed Martin and Global Industries, and later serving as CEO of D&D Associates. A lifelong scholar, he earned degrees from the University of Maryland (B.A.), Pepperdine University (M.A.), and Southern California University (Doctorate). He shared his knowledge as a professor at several universities and was known for his philanthropic work supporting education and veterans' initiatives. Robert's faith and intellect were central to his life. A devout member of Holy Family Catholic Church, he was also a deep thinker and philosopher, ever curious about the world and humanity's place within it. Robert was preceded in death by his son, Robert Dalton; his parents, Edmund and Mary Dalton of New York; his two brothers, and two sisters. He is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Patricia Dalton; his children, Debra Dalton of Burlington, VT, Dianne Dalton of Palm Desert, CA, John Dalton of Florida, Timothy Dalton of Denver, CO, Mark Everitt of Garnet Valley, PA and Michelle Everitt of San Diego, CA; and his sister, Maureen. He also leaves behind eight cherished grandchildren, Audrey, Forest, Kate, Kelsey, Madeline, Natalie, Ethan, Luke and one great-granddaughter-who will carry forward his spirit of kindness, duty, and wisdom. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Robert's life on Monday, May 11 from 11 AM until his funeral service begins at 12 PM at the Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road Edgewater, MD 21037. Interment will be held at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to one of the following organizations supporting military veterans: Tunnel to Towers Foundation: https://t2t.org/ Marine Corps Mustang Association, Inc: https://www.marinecorpsmustang.org
The first time I met Bob Dalton was at a Kilo 3/26 reunion at Quantico, Va. Bob became the 3/26 Kilo Company Commander after Dick Barba while in Vietnam on his third tour. He was very friendly and very knowledgeable as you can see below. Before Vietnam, he served in the Korean War and was in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. Bob loved his company and at one time tried to get medals for all of his marines who served under him. Bob told me a story about his parachute not opening in one of his jumps. It's better told by Will Clifford whom he had known in Officer Candidate School. You can find it at: Bounced at Least Once
