Mike Dolton wasn’t just an award-winning marketing professional. He lifted people around him, was “a dedicated family man” and championed messaging campaigns that brought business forward in ways that enriched lives, those close to him said.
Dolton, who was director of corporate communications for employee-owned government contractor AMERICAN SYSTEMS, died Jan. 30 following a three-year battle with prostate cancer. He was 70.
He leaves behind two daughters and numerous relatives.
AMERICAN SYSTEMS President and CEO John Steckel said Dolton “elevated us with communications that were disciplined yet human — strengthening our brand, keeping us aligned and informed, and championing the employee-owner voice that defines our culture.”
“Mike will be deeply missed, and his absence will be felt for a long time to come,” Steckel said.
Cass Panciocco, who retired as CEO of IntelliBridge in February 2025, said Dolton was a long-time friend to many and “a dedicated family man.”
“Additionally, he was a gifted creative talent that helped shape SIGNAL Corporation and significantly contributed to the growth and a successful sale of the business 20 years ago,” Panciocco said. “He put the shine on our shiny object and differentiated us from the rest of the companies of that era.”
Dolton lived abroad for much of his early life while his father worked as an international businessman. The family lived in Brussels, Tokyo and The Hague. He graduated from Ithaca College with a degree in romance languages.
He began his career in communications, PR and marketing in Ohio and eventually worked for SIGNAL Corp., where he was vice president of corporate communications.
He joined AMERICAN SYSTEMS in 2006 and retired in January 2026. In his nearly 20 years there, he helped shape and develop the company’s communications strategies, branding efforts and corporate accolades.
Dolton won several awards over his lifetime, including APEX, ADDY Awards and recognitions in Inc. magazine. He also contributed to AMERICAN SYSTEMS being twice named “Government Contractor of the Year” in its size category.
Outside of work, Dolton enjoyed cheering for the Washington Commanders, playing and watching golf and following the LPGA. A lifelong skier, he looked forward to cheering on Mikaela Shiffrin in the Winter Olympics. He also loved the beach and was a devoted fan of Bruce Springsteen for 50 years.
According to his obituary, “He attended countless concerts, knew the words of nearly every song, and even had the great good fortune to cross paths with the Boss and the E Street Band in the mid-70s in Asbury Park, New Jersey.”
“Mike had a positive and profound impact on everyone he met,” his obit states. “He will be remembered for his genuine kindness, quick wit, thoughtful grace, good humor and the unconditional love and support he provided for his daughters and many others.”
A celebration of life is scheduled for May 16 at a time and location to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorial gifts in Dolton’s honor be made to Capital Caring Health, the Prostate Cancer Foundation or an organization of your choice.