Heaven became a little funnier when Greg Dalton entered into eternal life unexpectedly June 30, 2022.
Greg graduated from Middletown High School in 1974, the same year as his future wife Karen. They didn’t know each other then but she had sure heard of him; anyone who knew Greg knew his reputation. They officially met at the Copper Kettle in Red Bank in 1976 and never looked back. They tied the knot Aug. 1, 1981, and were coming up on their 41st wedding anniversary. They were very proud to be the couple married the longest at their niece’s recent wedding.
After high school, Greg joined the Air Force, where he trained as an electrician. He then fulfilled his time as a reservist at McGuire Air Force Base as a load master on a C-141 cargo jet. His time in the military gave him the opportunity to travel the world. A man full of wanderlust, it was a dream come true.
When he left the service, he settled down in New Jersey with Karen, and raised their daughter Colleen with lots of love and laughter. He transitioned from traveling the world to traveling up and down the East Coast on his sailboat.
His sailing adventure began in the 80s. Those who know him well will always know him as “Captain.” His happy place was on the waves with his MGD and his Martin guitar.
Greg had such a special soul. He could talk to anyone about anything and was happy to do it. His laugh was loud and strong. He was full of information and was always happy to teach. He was the center of attention, full of confidence and charisma. He always had a story to tell and could easily make a short anecdote into a three-hour soliloquy.
The last two years of his life were spent enjoying his retirement. He took great pride in being a “house wife” and doting on Karen. He honed his New York Times crossword skills, often racing with Colleen to see who could finish first. He read voraciously, especially enjoying historical fiction and nautical-themed novels. All that he learned he was happy to show off while watching “Jeopardy.”
His incredible spirit will be missed, and our hearts break with him no longer near us. As much as it hurts, he wouldn’t want us to be sad. He would want us to laugh at his stories, his memory. His life was full and beautiful and it should be celebrated.
He was predeceased by his father Robert and his mother Carol O’Connell.
Surviving are his wife Karen; daughter Colleen; and siblings, Jeff (Janice), Peter, Leslie Duffy (Brian), Sara, and Jill (David). Also mourning are Karen’s family, mother-in-law Irma Richeal, Alison Bay (Kevin), Jeanne Schullstrom (Mark), Mark Richeal (Cathy) and Scott Richeal, along with many nieces and nephews.
A memorial gathering was held July 7 at John E. Day Funeral Home in Red Bank. Drinks at a bar followed for those who wished to join. Casual attire was requested; nautical gear was encouraged. All were welcome.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.
Memories and condolences may be shared at johnedayfuneralhome.com.
The article originally appeared in the September 9 – 14, 2022 print edition of The Two River Times.
