Neil Alan Dellar

Neil Alan Dellar of McLean, VA passed away suddenly from a pulmonary embolism on September 3, 2020 at the age of 61. Neil was a true gentleman, a beloved husband and father, a cherished friend, family member and colleague, a gifted singer, an exceptionally skilled attorney, and a passionate food connoisseur. He generously shared his many gifts -- cooking, singing, legal expertise, and good humor -- with all who were fortunate to know him. Neil was born in London to Alan and Helen Dellar. He received a law degree from the University of South of England and a Masters of Law degree from Fordham University, graduating 1st in his class. While visiting from London, Neil met his future wife Wendy, also an attorney, at a client lunch in New York City and, after commuting between London and New York for a year, they were wed in 1991. They raised son Tristan in New York and Washington, ultimately settling in McLean to build a life filled with love and laughter. Neil spent twenty years at the Federal Communications Commission after a career in private practice and was one of the founding members of the Transaction Team in the Office of General Counsel. He was known throughout the Commission as the go-to person on issues of corporate law, and his legal abilities and warm personality earned the respect and enduring friendship of his many colleagues. Throughout his life, Neil was a passionate lover of opera and choral music. He was blessed with a rich baritone singing voice and for many years performed with the choral group Choralis as well as the choir of Fairfax Presbyterian Church where he was an active member. Neil lived a profoundly contented, impactful life. He is survived by his wife, Wendy; his son, Tristan; his mother, Helen; and his beloved Lab, Maisie Due to the current health pandemic, a private service for family will be held on September 9 to be followed by a Celebration of Neil’s life just as soon as singing in a large group is allowed again. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to Wolf Trap Opera’s Young Artist program at www.wolftrap.org/Dellar.