Theodore Edwin Morton

Theodore "Ted" Edwin Morton, 80, died Sunday, November 25, 2012 surrounded in love by his wife Patti and four children Linda, Scott, Maggie and Allison. Ted was born November 17, 1932 in Indianapolis, Indiana, a son of Harry and Helen (Eaker) Morton. After finishing high school, Ted joined the NROTC and attended the University of Rochester in New York, where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 1954. During his time at the University of Rochester Ted was a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity and worked on the yearbook. Upon college graduation he went on to active duty in the United States Navy where he graduated from flight school and began a twenty year career as a Navy pilot. During his time on active duty in the Navy Ted flew multiple aircraft including the Grumman A6 Intruder, from the USS America and USS Enterprise and later served as the ship's Air Boss' assistant. On August 18, 1973, Ted married Patricia "Patti" Watson in Alexandria, Virginia. In 1978, he retired from the Navy and began his civilian career as a practicing mechanical engineer. During his career he worked as a project manager for defense contracting firms. Ted always had a love for the water. Even after retiring from the Navy he still found ways to escape back to the water whenever he could. Ted owned several sail boats and a lake house at Lake Anna where he would spend time hosting friends and family and teaching his kids to water ski. After retiring from his career in engineering, Ted volunteered regularly at the Inova Mount Vernon Hospital and at the information desk at Reagan National Airport. He genuinely enjoyed the comradery he shared with the friends he volunteered with as well as the people he was there to assist. Ted's children often refer to him as "The Commander," as he ran a "tight ship," and provided "tough love" at times. He had strong opinions (no matter what the topic was) and was always ready for a debate. He was always there as both the critic and the biggest fan. Though his words were sometimes harsh, the love for his family was deep and kind. He adored his wife Patti and his children and smiled with pride at their accomplishments. There were good times and sad times but through every joyful moment or sorrowful tear, he was always there for his family. His wife of 39 years, Patti Morton of Alexandria, survives him, as well as his children: Linda Morton of Denver, Colorado; Sally Morton and her husband Bernie Gast of Stevensville, Maryland; Scott Morton and his wife Nancy of Cincinnati, Ohio.; Maggie Colucci and her husband Jim of Leesburg, Virginia; Allison Day and her husband Darren of Fairfax, Virginia and grandchildren Bryan Morton, Bruce Morton, Jennifer Morton, Craig Morton, Jonathan Morton, Peter Morton, Joseph Colucci, Jacqueline Colucci, Taylor Day, Ashley Day, Maureen Gast, Catherine Gast, and Nora Gast. Ted was predeceased by his mother Helen, father Harry, brother Jerry and sister Sue. A service celebrating his life will be held at the Old Post Chapel, Arlington, VA followed by interment ceremony with full Military Honors. Once we receive the date for the service we will announce this on this website. Donations may be made in Ted's name to the Inova Mount Vernon Hospital Auxiliary.

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Theodore Edwin Morton

November 17, 1932 - November 25, 2012