Robert Augustus Malone Jr.

Robert A. Malone, Jr., known affectionally as Bob, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2024, in Mesa, AZ, after a brief illness, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born on November 19, 1931, in Carthage, Missouri, to Robert A. and Antonia J. (Budinich) Malone. His life was marked by unwavering faith, dedication to his family, and service to others.

In his youth, Bob found joy in sports and the outdoors, passions that stayed with him throughout his life. Raised primarily in Kirksville, Missouri alongside his three siblings, he pursued higher education at Drury College, studying geology. While a student at Drury College, he pledged the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity, making life-long friends with his brothers. He left Drury briefly to serve as a Corporal in the Korean Conflict before returning to Drury to graduate in 1956. His alma mater honored Bob in 2022 with the Distinguished Alumni Award for his exceptional contributions to the community and dedication to serving others.

In 1955, Bob met the love of his life, Catherine Ann Sorenson, while working at Glacier National Park. Their journey together led them to Ontario Canada, Gunnison Colorado, and finally to Grants New Mexico where they lived for over thirty years. Together, Bob and Cathy built a life grounded in their strong Catholic faith and raised four children. Bob consistently offered his steadfast encouragement and support to his children, serving as their most enthusiastic advocate in every endeavor.

Bob’s expertise as a geologist flourished in Grants, known then as the uranium capital of the world. His career with Kerr-McGee Mines spanned twenty-five years. As Chief Geologist, he was known for his intelligence, loyalty, and straight-forward demeanor. He served as President of the New Mexico American Institute of Mining Engineers and was an active member of the Geological Society of New Mexico and the New Mexico Mining Association. Bob had a passion for engaging in conversations about geology and mining, eagerly sharing his knowledge with anyone who would lend an ear.

Bob leaves behind a legacy of service and generosity. He dedicated much of his free time to community organizations, including serving as Kiwanis Club Secretary/Treasurer, Local and Regional Science Fair Judge, and New Mexico State Scholarship Judge. As an Elderhostel Program Coordinator, he shared his insights and affection for the southwest with retirees. In his Mesa Arizona retirement community, Bob was renowned for serving pancake breakfasts and grilling burgers for a crowd of people.

Beyond his contributions to his community, Bob enjoyed an active lifestyle. He excelled as a competitive tennis player and was an avid golfer, hitting the links until the remarkable age of ninety-one. Bob treasured fishing excursions with his son. He was an avid gardener, finding joy in the blossoming of his roses, petunias, and geraniums which he proudly displayed at the Bi-County Fair. Bob and Cathy loved entertaining others, playing bridge, and never missed an opportunity to dress up in costume. They were always the first ones to volunteer to host and the last ones on the dance floor. He was also active in local theatre. Bob's love for cooking was passed down from his beloved mother and nothing made him happier than sharing a good southern meal with friends and family.

Bob's greatest joys were found in the company of his family, whom he cherished more than anything else. He will be remembered for his warm smile, his love of a good cigar and political debate, and his adventurous spirit, evident in his cross-country road trips and international travels with Cathy.

Bob is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Cathy, and their four children: Debbie Patterson (Jim) of Wheaton, IL, Michael Malone (Judy) of Durango, CO, Cynthia Galvin of Lake Orion, MI, and Marchea Carmichael (Bill) of Glastonbury, CT. He cherished his seven grandchildren Michael (Patterson), Michael, Molly, Megan, Maureen, (Galvin), Matthew, Kevin (Carmichael) and great-granddaughter Penelope (Patterson). Bob is also survived by his brother, Ronald Malone and numerous nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Antonia Malone, sisters Marchea Klang and Shirley Nienhaus, and son-in-law Kevin Galvin.

In honoring Bob's memory, let us celebrate a life well-lived, marked by love, faith, and a profound dedication to others. He will be deeply missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Memorial Mass will be held in Robert's honor on Monday, October 14, 2024 at 11:00 am at Christ the King Catholic Church; 1551 E. Dana Ave. Mesa, AZ. Robert will be laid to rest privately at The National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.