James H. Dalton Jr., 78, Celina, died at 3:34 a.m. Jan. 23, 2014, at Golden Living Center-Valley Nursing Home, St. Marys.

He was born Oct. 31, 1935, in Middletown, to James H. and Jeanette Watson Dalton Sr. On April 28, 1956, he married Rosemary R. Arthur in Middletown, and she survives.

Also surviving are three sons, James H. Dalton III, Trenton, Jerry (Jeanette) Dalton, Valparaiso, Ind., and Timothy Dalton, Dayton; seven grandchildren, Shelby Dalton, Amanda Smith, Travis Dalton, Lee Anna Dalton, Jay Dalton, Julia Dalton and Will Hoefflicker; and two great-grandchildren, Ella Dalton and Quentin Rager.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Jeanette Dalton Sr.; a brother, Howard Dalton; and a sister, Ruth King.

He was a 1954 graduate of Middletown High School and was a veteran of the United States Air Force, having served as a jet engine mechanic in the 42nd Field Maintenance Squadron. He retired from AK Steel Co., Middletown. His favorite pastimes included woodworking and planting a large garden at his home every year. An avid fisherman, he also manufactured and sold "Dalton Crappie Jigs" to thousands of fellow anglers over the years.

Private family services will be held.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer's Foundation.

Online condolences may be expressed at www. millerfuneralhomes.net.

Arrangements are by Miller Funeral Homes, St. Marys.