ROCKLAND - Dalton Arthur Malmstrom, Sr., 64, went to Heaven Sunday, May 18, 2003 following complications from a long illness.
Born in Rockland, July 26, 1938, he was the son of Arthur Emanuelle and Virginia Vernice Raymond Malmstrom. He attended Rockland schools and earned his General Equivalency Diploma.
On November 7, 1957, Mr. Malmstrom entered the US Air Force at Fort Williams in Cape Elizabeth. He was stationed at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota, where he received an Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. His last duty was with the 28th Installations Squadron from which he was honorably discharged on April 27, 1960.
Returning to Rockland, on September 1, 1966, he married Evelyn Marie Daniello. The couple lived in Rockland, where they raised eight children.
Working on the Rockland waterfront, for many years he was employed as a fish cutter with F. J. O'Hara and Sons Seafood and Stinsons Canning Company.
An established wood-carver, selections of Mr. Malmstrom's work were shown at the Farnsworth Museum in Rockland. He designed the Eagle emblem for Rockland District Middle School and they now plan dedication of that emblem in his memory. He enjoyed a long friendship with local artist Eddie Harriman.
An accomplished musician, he often played with a band called the "Misfits" and with the well-known Dick Curless. He was once offered the opportunity to play at the "Grand Ole Opry" in Nashville, Tennessee but unfortunately health reasons prevented him from accepting the honor.
Long active in politics and concerned with representation of the working class, Mr. Malmstrom wrote many articles to the Editor of the Courier Gazette. He debated political issues with other local politicians on WRKD radio of Rockland. For two years, he ran for Rockland City Council.
An active member of Grace Bible Fellowship Church, Rockland, Mr. Malmstrom became a strong voice for prison ministry. He touched many lives during the times he spent singing gospel music and sharing Bible studies with inmates. He also enjoyed ministry at local nursing homes, singing and preaching.
A true Christian, his family said, he was a writer, poet, musician, artist and amazing father. A one of a kind man with many amazing talents, he will be greatly missed by his family and the many others whose lives he touched.
Mr. Malmstrom is survived by his wife, Evelyn of Westbrook; his twin sister, Delores V. Boody of Rockland; eight children, Anita Malmstrom of Petaluma, CA, Glenda Malmstrom of Westbrook, Dalton Malmstrom of Portland, Ericka Malmstrom of South Portland, Virginia Farnham and her husband, Randy of Vinalhaven, Clara Leonard and her husband Chris of Augusta, Lisa Daniello of Portland, Eric Malmstrom of Warren; best friend Douglas Teel; as well as many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and good friends.
Visiting hours will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 Wednesday, May 21, 2003 at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland. A celebration of Mr. Malmstrom's life will be at 2:00 in the afternoon, Thursday, May 22nd at Grace Bible Fellowship Church, 30 Sherers Lane, Rockland. The Reverend Louis Ruvido will officiate. Interment will follow at Achorn Cemetery, Rockland.