Walter “Wally” Malicki, 71, of Huntington, passed away on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at his home. Wally graduated from Washington High School in South Bend. He then attended and graduated from the John Herron School of Art in Indianapolis, receiving his BFA and BAE. He later received his Master’s Degree from the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne. Wally served as an Art Teacher at Whitko High School 35 years, where he was inducted into their Hall of Fame for outstanding service. Throughout his career, he was awarded numerous National, International, Regional, and Local Art awards, as well as the Margaret Keegan Arts United Lifetime Achievement award, the Kosciusko Youth Leadership Award, the Dekko Foundation Outstanding Teacher Award, was a semi-finalist for the Indiana Teacher of the Year Award and was one of a handful of artists that was awarded the honor to paint an ornament for the White House Christmas tree. He and his wife Nancy founded the Malicki Art Scholarship. Wally was an outdoor enthusiast. He loved nature and supported his children as a Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Adventure Scout Leader. Wally loved sports and spent most of his life coaching basketball, baseball, and football. He coached at all levels, from the Huntington P.A.L., Gemmer Field Baseball, and Middle School Football at Crestview Middle School, where his teams won multiple County Championships. Although he retired, Wally never stopped teaching. He spent his life in service to others, always looking to help and offer guidance. Most importantly, Wally was a grandpa. His proudest moments were being able to watch and support his grandchildren. His unique perspective and outlook on life will be greatly missed.
Wally was born on June 11, 1952, in South Bend.
He was united in marriage to Nancy Burdine on December 28, 1974, in Rockville, Indiana. She preceded him in death on June 20, 2013.
Survivors include two sons: Daniel (Lindsay) Malicki of Columbia City and David (Mallorie) Malicki of Huntington, and four grandchildren: Miles Malicki, Owen Malicki, Mason Malicki, and Mylah Malicki.
Visitation will take place on Saturday, January 6, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Mt. Etna Community Life Church located at 6383 W. 600 S. Huntington, Indiana.
A Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 12:00 p.m., immediately following the visitation at the Mt. Etna Community Life Church.
Memorial donations can be made out to the Malicki Art Scholarship Fund and sent in the care of Myers Funeral Home, 2901 Guilford St., Huntington, IN 46750.
