With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Douglas Frank Malkowski of Wyandotte, MI.
These are some of the moments and memories that shaped his story.
Some bonds are not loosened by absence.
Douglas "Doug" Malkowski, devoted husband, loving father and father-in-law, cherished papa, brother and uncle, passed away unexpectedly on April 28th at the age of 77. Born on May 1, 1948 in Wyandotte,MI. Douglas was the beloved son of the late Lawrence Malkowski, Sr. and Julianna (Gurowski) Malkowski and grew up deeply rooted in the faith and traditions that would carry him through the rest of his life.
Doug attended Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic School in Wyandotte for 12 years, graduating with the Class of 1967. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan-Dearborn and completed his Master of Social Work at Wayne State University. He proudly served his country in the Army National Guard 1968-1974 and served on the Wyandotte Police Reserve for 10 years.
Although Doug spent the majority of his career at Norfolk and Southern Railroad, his interests expanded into various other areas. As an active member of the Ford Yacht Club, he served on the Board of Directors for over 7 years and as Chairman of the Board. He was also a Licensed Residential Builder.
Douglas was the dearest husband of Elizabeth "Liz" Malkowski for 52 years. Beloved Father of Jacqueline Malkowski Eichbrecht and Danielle (Patrick) Manning.Dear Brother of Lawrence Malkowski Jr. (the late Courtney) Loving Papa to Alexa and Alec Eichbrecht. Beloved Uncle to Christa Myers and Nicole (Steve) Cybulla Proud Great Uncle of Addison Myers, Easton Myers and Ava Cybulla.
Doug was an outstanding athlete whose proudest moments were playing baseball at Tiger Stadium for the All-Catholic League Championship game, where he was voted All-Catholic team pitcher of the year and as co-captain of the football team where, at halftime, had to do quick change to join the marching band as a drummer. In his pursuit of athleticism, he began weight training at an early age, which he continued for the rest of his life.
As a young man he was known as the guy with the purple 426 Hemi Challenger, the first on the road in the area, with a stereo system he designed himself. When the Hemi smoked it's last burnout, he transitioned to boating with a stereo system that could be heard for miles on the water, and where his great love of music led him to a side gig as "DJ Doug."
He loved his tropical plants, koi fish pond and traveling to warm and sunny places, especially the family Disney trips. He brought the weather home with him becoming a Weather Channel fan, storm watching/tracking and would call the family to update everyone of the latest forecasts to be sure they were safe. Doug loved his grand dogs Stella and Bella, whether taking Stella for runs to the airport to plane watch, or overnight stays puppy sitting for Bella, they brought him endless delight.
Doug cherished his daughters and poured himself into every part of raising them-doctor appointments, sports practices and games, travel leagues, ice skating or dance lessons. He was their coach and mentor. As they grew into adults, that devotion simply evolved into new adventures: coffee runs, storm chasing, jet boat rides, cooking their favorite meals, airshows, MIS races, movies, and so much more. If his girls needed him, he would drop anything-no matter the hour, no matter what he was doing-to be there for them. He was always the one they could count on, whether something needed fixing or they needed one of those many two-hour calls for advice or simply for him to listen. Words will never come close to capturing the incredible dad he was.
He was the most devoted papa to Alexa and Alec. He never missed a game, dance recital, or competition, and he took such joy in babysitting them when they were little. He truly cherished every moment he spent with them. Their trips shopping, out to eat, the park or pool-anywhere they wanted to go-papa could never say no. The bond they shared is something they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.
As a husband, he was the love of Liz's life. He made her laugh and they completed each other through all the challenges, sorrows and joys – together they built a beautiful life over 52 wonderful years.
To say he will be dearly missed by family and friends is an understatement. His presence, his humor, his generosity, and his unwavering love leave a legacy that will be felt forever.
