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BORN
1935
DIED
2016
Mike Dillon Obituary
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mike Dillon of Scottsdale, Arizona. Mike was born on January 2, 1935 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and left us on the morning of November 7th, 2016. He leaves behind a loving and large family including wife, Carol; sons: Stephen and Christopher; daughter, Stephanie; grandchildren: Wyatt, Ethan, Nellie, George, Travis, Sara, Jack, Michael and John; sister, Patricia; daughter-in-law, Kimmie. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Clarence John Dillon and mother, Nell Gregory Fletcher. Mike's legacy has touched the lives of countless people worldwide. He revolutionized the ammunition reloading industry and made it what it is today. Mike also redesigned and manufactured the M134 Mini Gun that is now in service in the United States and foreign military forces. As a passionate aviator, he flew for TWA as a 2nd officer for 13 years and later made a name for himself as a writer/photographer for Air Progress Magazine. He is recognized by some as being the one who started the warbird restoration movement in the 1960's with his P-40 Warhawk. His forever love of flying continued with the restoration of a TT-1 Pinto jet, 3 T-34A military trainers and a UH-1H Huey helicopter.
Mike's dedication to his family, his customers, and this country was exemplary. We will never forget the impact that he has had on us all. We take comfort knowing he is flying in the blue skies of heaven above. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mike's memory to: -National Rifle Association https://home.nra.org/ (Handloading Education Endowment and Military and Veterans' Affairs Endowment) -Alzheimer's Association http://www.alz.org/
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mike Dillon
Posey M Nash
November 7, 2022
Always remembered.............
Karen Junior (Funk)
November 13, 2016
Carol and family,
Mike will always be remembered in our family for the chance, opportunities and friendship that he gave to my brother. The high regard Mike was given and the excitement Jeff would share when he talked of the next development or adventure was a memory we will treasure in our hearts. Soar High Mike....and to his family, cherish the memories you shared. May God give you peace and comfort.
Posey Moore Nash
November 13, 2016
Dear Carol and family,
We will cherish the wild day we spent with you at the Ranch, with water leaking, moving furniture, a water heater where it wasn't supposed to be, and all the while with hospitality and grace. May the strong moral compass that was Mike, remain in your hearts always.. and may God bless and keep you always...............
Barbara Hanigsberg
November 13, 2016
Dear Carol and Family.
My deepest sympathy to you all. John cherished his friendship with Mike and I imagine them together now.
I enjoyed our times together and send my love and hugs to you all.
Barbara Hanigsberg
Linda Kempton
November 12, 2016
Thanks for all you did, and your friendship with Jake, Mike.
See you in another life.
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