Michael Dalton, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the UNMC Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy died Wednesday, Sept. 1, following a long illness. He was 45.
Dr. Dalton taught anatomy and embryology to UNMC medical, pharmacy and allied health students and contributed to the graduate education programs. He also served as a member of the medical school admissions committee. Last fall, the current M2 class nominated Dr. Dalton for the Class of 1962 Basic Science Outstanding Teacher Award.
Jim Shull, Ph.D., chairman of the UNMC Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Anatomy, characterized Dr. Dalton as an outstanding teacher and colleague. “Mike’s dedication to our university and its students and his love for his profession were evident in all aspects of his work,” Dr. Shull said. “His positive attitude and his enthusiasm for teaching, most notably during his illness, were an inspiration to all of us in the department.”
Jim Turpen, Ph.D., recalled Dr. Dalton as a graduate student and said: “He was an outstanding student, who always sat in the front row and was always the first to both ask and answer questions.”
Dr. Dalton received his Ph.D. from the department in 1998, following undergraduate and graduate training at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Michigan Technological University. His research interests were focused on developmental biology. He is survived by his wife, Robyn, a son, Aaron, and two daughters, Jordyn and Joslyn.
Visitation is today (Friday, Sept. 3) from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Fremont Evangelical Free Church, 2050 N. Lincoln Ave., in Fremont, Neb., followed by a prayer service and opportunity for sharing memories. On Saturday, Sept. 4, there will be a viewing at 1 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2 p.m.