Dante L. Daltoso, 90, passed away peacefully on Sept. 25, 2025 at his home in Boardman. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and servant of Christ, Dante lived a life rooted in faith, family, and community.
Born on Oct. 16, 1934 in Walla Walla, Wash., Dante was the son of Mario and Maria Daltoso. He graduated from St. Patrick’s High School in Walla Walla in 1952 before pursuing higher education at the University of Portland, where he completed both his undergraduate and graduate studies in history (1956) and education (1962).
Following his service in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959, Dante began a lifelong career in education. He first taught school in Harper before moving to Boardman, where he became a beloved teacher and coach at Riverside High School in 1961. In 1966, he led the Riverside football team to a state championship – a proud moment that reflected his dedication to mentoring young people both on and off the field.
Dante’s commitment to education extended beyond the classroom and athletic field. “Mr. D” – as he was affectionately called by students – served as principal of Riverside High School for 22 years until his retirement, shaping generations of students with his steady leadership and unwavering integrity.
A man deeply grounded in faith, Dante was an active member of St. Patrick’s Mission Church in Irrigon and Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Boardman. His spiritual devotion guided every aspect of his life and inspired those around him.
Outside of work and family life, Dante found peace in fishing, gardening and cooking risotto for his grandchildren. A lifelong sports fan, he especially followed Major League Baseball’s Brooklyn/Los Angeles Dodgers. In retirement, Dodger games on TV were required viewing fare whenever they were playing.
Dante leaves behind a legacy defined by service – to his country as a soldier, to his students as an educator and coach, to his community as a leader of faith – and most importantly to those who knew him as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. May his memory bring comfort to all who were touched by his life.
Dante shared 64 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Mary Louise. Together they raised six children: Joe (Martha), Danette Williams, Helen (Jim Wilcox), Daniel, Vince (Amy), and Rose Ann. His love extended to his 15 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren – all of whom were his greatest joy – and he cherished every moment spent with them. He is also survived by his sisters, Stella Hamilton and Marianne (Jack) Birmingham; and sister-in-law, Marguerite.
Dante was preceded in death by his parents, Mario and Maria; brother, Bennie; and brother-in-law, Bud Hamilton.
A Rosary will be held on Oct. 9, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 78922 Olson Road, Boardman.
A community celebration of life will be held on Oct. 10, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at the SAGE Center, 101 Olson Road, N.E., Boardman.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Oct. 11, 2025 at 11 a.m., also at the SAGE Center.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Building Fund or the Riverside High School Booster Club.
Please share memories of Dante with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
