Andrew Paul (Andy) Dalton

Andrew Dalton, what a fantastic person! I knew Dalt before this but my first clear memory of Dalt was when I was about 8. Me, Dave (my brother) and Dalt playing by Compton swimming baths. Me and Dave got a can of coke and asked Dalt if he wanted one. ‘Class in a glass, not shit in a can’ he replied refusing to have one. I think Chris’ influence may be here! Dalt and Dave were the same age and were good friends. I guess as Dave’s younger brother I was the ‘hanger on’. Somehow I was always there. Camping out in Dalt’s garden when he nearly bit his tounge off, Dave and Dalt trying to decapitate me with a rope (ok, maybe I’m being a little dramatic), Chris and Marg banning him from our house for a few weeks as we used scaffolding there for an extension for an assault course, the list goes on. It’s when we came of legal drinking age that our friendship blossomed for some reason. We had some great nights out in Rothwells, O’Neils, light bar, hero’s (thanks Si Beasley), Atlantis, again the list goes on. I used to love when Dalt would order a bottle of wine and when asked how many glasses he would reply, ‘just a straw’ then dance around with his bottle. There were some more serious times. We both helped each other massively when he split with his first wife and me splitting from a girl I was living with. He was the first person outside of parents/siblings that I told Lucy was pregnant with Rhys. Again he was a fantastic support and although they only spent real time together for Rhys’ first year and earlier this year they seemed to have an amazing bond. I remember Andy saying he was moving to NZ. I was supportive as were all of our friendship group but personally I was gutted my best friend was moving to the other side of the world. I remember saying goodbye at the nut (shocker) and Greg Titley and I trying, unsuccessfully to hold back the tears. We kept in touch and I loved seeing him whenever he was back. I was hoping he’d be at our wedding in Cyprus but as it turned out, it clashed with Zaviers birth. A decent excuse not to make it. And what a proud dad he was! I was thrilled to be at his wedding to Nicole back in the uk. We had an incredible time and was great to reconnect. Then along came Emmy. He was the proudest Dad I’ve ever seen. That classic Dalton grin on every picture. We kept up our regular communication. Our first line being how’s the family etc then straight to our major point of disagreement, rugby. It amazes me that he can spend so much time in New Zealand and still be so wrong about rugby. Then he met Amanda. His first message was ‘god knows what she sees in me lol’. I joked with him about that. I’m no believer in god but something happened to bring these 2 people together at the right time. I only met Amanda twice but Dalt was absolutely right. She has been a rock for him! A wife, a friend, a companion through his toughest moments and an incredible person. As for what she sees in him as Dalt joked? I’m sure it’s the same as everyone else. One of the best people to walk this earth. My family loved spending time with Dalt on his last trip to the UK even though it was due to his Dads terminal illness. I hope we made his trip as easy as it could be for him. Through that sad time we made some memories that will stick with me for the rest of my life. Dalt, I love you and I send all of my love to your family. I’ll be having a drink for you tomorrow. Rest assured it will be class in a glass, not shit in a can. X

When I think of the Dalton family, two things immediately spring to mind: they have a great (sometimes wicked!) sense of humour, and they all have big hearts. Andy had both of these in spades! Andy was a lot of fun. Even when he had his trache and couldn’t talk, he was cracking jokes, setting up his phone to give funny answers, and even speaking in different accents from around the world. His big Dalton heart made him a great helper—I can see from all the comments on social media that this extended beyond his family and geography. He was well known for his generosity and helpful nature, whether it was helping a mate with girlfriend problems, helping someone settle into a new job, or even a new country. It's no surprise to me that he would end up working for a company all about "Service"—they even have it in their name. Amanda, Xavier, Emmy & Nicole, you are also Daltons and share those traits, and we are always here for you. In fact, everyone who knew Andy is an honorary Dalton, ok! Andy taught us a lot, especially in these last two years. - Think big. - Embrace life—every moment is precious. - And most importantly… HAVE A LAUGH! Vale Andy Dalton. Miss you Cuz!

I thought i'd share a few stories of who cousin Andy was to me, I hope you enjoy them... We used to pitch tents together in the garden as young kids at his house, pretending we were far from home in the wilderness....with sandwiches appearing mysteriously at the tent door! We used to play with Star Wars and He-man figures and do a lot of swapping, but he was not keen for me to take any home with me!! Andy had a permanent set up of a football game called Subbuteo on the dining room table, meaning it was trays on laps, for dinner!! This was a big novelty to me, to break the dinner table rules; I loved it at Chrissy and Aunty Margs house. Dad used to go to Chris's to have brotherly chinwags, and i always looked forward to going with him to play with Andy's many toys. Spoilt only child! I was quite envious. Lol. Haha. When we were older, we used to catch up in O'Neils pub, and I knew Id find Andy sitting in the same seat every weekend! He was always up for a chat and a good laff and a joke. I honestly dont think I ever saw Andy in a bad mood. Andy helped me a lot when i needed him after a breakup with a girlfriend. He was kind and caring during a time when I didnt want to be around friends. We went swimming, played pool and had some good chats at that time. He was great at seeing things for what they are and just getting on with it. He was a big favourite amongst our cousins. Later on again, he moved to NZ and i wish i'd seen more of him but, the recent time that me, Harry and Steve spent with him, Amanda, Zavier and Emmy, was really special. It was also great to meet Nicole, as well as her beautiful kids. Andy was very proud of them. Thank you Amanda, for being a great wife, friend and carer to Andy xx Gone too soon Andy man. Love you mate xxxx

My sincerest condolences to Andy’s loving family. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. A man of quality sadly taken from his treasured family and friends way too early. I admire and respect Andy for his authenticity; You always got the genuine Andy. His sharing and support uplifting others around him. A true people-person and good friend to many. And of course, his courage and bravery during more recent times. Fond memories of good British humour, raucous laughter and cutting banter (sometimes over too many beers) ... those memories shall remain and return many a smile. As a technology professional, a skilled advisor trusted and liked by many. Business and people relationships enriched by Andy’s openness, energy, and spirited personality. I am grateful to have had Andy as a friend and colleague. To Andy’s beloved children, Emmy-Rose and Zavier ... know that your Dad was a very good man, a man of integrity, a man of energy and fun-loving, a man that loved people and who people loved and wanted to be with. Carry Dad’s spirit on your journey and make Dad even prouder as he watches over you. Slàinte Mhath Andy. Respect and love Brother. Derek

Mr dearest condolences to Andy’s family. He was a great person Kind regards

Condolences to Andy’s family. He was a top man and will be missed by many. Thanks for everything you did for me mate. Won’t be forgotten. Blue moon.

Dear Amanda, our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of Andy's family at this sad time. Fond memories, always remembered xx