Robert J. Malek

Robert J. Malek passed away suddenly on January 9, 2024, literally - bottom up. He was reaching for the now “infamous” apple pie in the refrigerator and died quickly of a heart attack. He was doing one thing he truly enjoyed, indulging in food. The Malek Family and friends now have another memory of Robert, unsure if they will ever look at apple pie the same.

Born in Hamtramck on March 26, 1946 the youngest of 3 children to Rita (Oset) and Edward Malek. Robert J. Malek was one of 4 Roberts in the family. He was so proud to use his full name with emphasis on his middle initial, “J,”. His friends better knew him as Bob.

Growing up in Detroit in a working class home with parents that struggled to provide hot meals and clothing for their children, Robert became resourceful, compassionate and caring. His first job was washing windows weekly at a local restaurant. From there he went on to work at a gas station pumping gas and cleaning windshields. Hard work is something he learned early in life and instilled in his family until his last day. Robert was well on his way to graduating from the School of Hard Knocks. Fixing things himself was something that came naturally. One of his first projects was purchasing a Ford and converting it from an automatic to a manual shift. Believe it or not, he tried to sell that car to his future spouse Dolores for $500. Her protective parents would not allow it.

Robert and Dolores, his wife and debate partner of 57 years, met at Chadsey High School in English class. He absolutely adored Dolores from the moment he laid eyes on her. Robert would regularly ask his teachers for a hall pass because surprise, surprise, Dolores was the hall monitor. He probably convinced his teachers he had the school's weakest bladder. He began asking Dolores out and she declined. For all that knew Robert, he was never one to accept “No” as an answer. He was a man full of determination, even at a young age. He would often drive by her house or show up unexpectedly to events she attended, just for the chance to gain her attention. After crashing Dolores’s 16th birthday party, where he accidentally stepped on Dolores's Grandma's foot, the deal was sealed. Robert and Dolores were married on February 18, 1966. They became very proud parents to daughters Andrea M. Watkins (Mark F. Brehl) and Malinda Malek. Later to become exceptionally involved grandparents to Tyler and Taylor Watkins.

Robert, a hard working man, retired from Center Steel Sales after 27 years. He was in the Army National Guard, a gig that saved him from Vietnam but caused him to be deployed to the Detroit riots of 1968. Bob served his community as a member of the Wolverine Lake Zoning Board, an Elected Official of the Wolverine Lake Village Council and a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles since 2001. Having many interests, Robert’s hobbies were endless and he loved nothing more than sharing them with all of the people in his life. He enjoyed sports and supporting his local teams. He was elated with U of M's national championship but a little late to witness the Lion's recent playoff success. Spending time outdoors played a big role in his life. Living in Wolverine Lake, fishing, skiing and swimming were activities he enjoyed with his family. Traveling to the beaches of Mexico, or driving across the country to Arizona, always brought him pleasure. He was also an avid bowler. Bowling was inherit in his Polish genes.

He was family oriented, but to him, family extended to all those involved in his life. One of his greatest joys was his ability to help and teach others. This was especially true with his grandchildren. He passed on all of his knowledge so his children would be a "Jack of all Trades", as he was. He was involved with his neighbors and local community. It did not matter how little or big the situation, he was just happy to be involved.

To honor Roberts’ life and legacy, mass will be held at 10:00 am on January 19, 2024 at St. William Parish, 531 Common St., Walled Lake MI, 48390. The family will arrive at 9:00 am to meet with those wishing to express their condolences. Following mass, the family will be hosting a luncheon at the church hall. All are invited to attend. In lieu of memorial contributions the family requests that you do a good deed to someone in need. Bob would prefer it that way.

The family would appreciate those participating to share their personal memories and positive impact of Robert with others in attendance.