Grover Frederick (Fred) Dalton, age 93, passed away on Sunday, October 27, 2024 after suffering a heart attack.  His daughters and his grandson Alex were at his side at the time of his death in Licking Memorial Hospital.

Mr. Dalton was born in DeSoto, GA to Annie Clara Epps Dalton and William Cloyd Dalton. He was the one of five boys in the family.   He shared fond memories of spending time with his father on the train and around the DeSoto Depot.   He mentioned picking cotton, scooping ice cream for Mr. Ferguson, swimming in the creek, listening to stories from Jeb Rees and playing high school basketball.  He was particularly proud of his vertical jumping capabilities.

Incredibly gifted at math, he was encouraged to enroll in the apprenticeship program at the Warner Robbins Air Force Base.  In 1948 he started his career in electronics as a Radio & Radar (Electronic) Technician, Apprentice.  This decision led him to his career in the civil service with the Department of Defense. Despite having no college education, he qualified for certification as a Professional Engineer in 1969 by passing the State Ohio of examination for Professional Engineers & Surveyors.  During his career he received many commendations for his work, was a published, and served temporary assignments in Norway, Holland, France, Australia, and many states.  At various times, as an additional duty, he taught algebra, trigonometry, theory of operation of various airborne radar and computer systems.  At the time of his retirement, he was employed at the Newark/Heath Ohio Air Force Base, Aerospace Guidance and Metrology Center as an Electronics Engineer.

Mr. Dalton was a very dedicated father, selflessly committing himself to raising his daughters as a single parent.  He was a loving and caring provider for his daughters and their families.

After retirement he remained active until his death.  He was quick to use his intelligence to devise "cunning plans" and MacGyver-like solutions for electronics repairs.  He spent his final years living with his daughter Lori who provided around the clock loving care and attention.  Daughters Lisa and Patty lived nearby and also cherished time with and caring for their dad.  He was a hero to his daughters.

Mr. Dalton is predeceased by his wife Virginia, his parents, brothers: William Cloyd, Jr, Edgar, and Marcus.  He is survived by brother James; daughters: Lori LeVeque (Lenny Rosser); Lisa Offenbaker (John); Patty Huddle (John McCormick); grandchildren: Vincent Guinsler (Danielle); Courtney Overmyer (Sam); Alex Rowe and great grandsons: Henry and Louis Guinsler; nieces and nephew and their families.  He will also be greatly missed by his faithful canine companion, Baxter.

In lieu of flowers the family encourages donations to an engineering scholarship program.

Mr. Dalton will be buried in the William Cloyd Dalton family plot at the DeSoto City Cemetery on Saturday, November 2, 2024.  Calling hours will be the same day at 2:30 p.m. immediately followed by the funeral service at 3:30 p.m. to be officiated by Chet Ragsdale.   All will be hosted at the DeSoto Baptist Church 400 Bagley Street, DeSoto, GA 31743.