Michael Russell Malone

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Russell Malone, a much loved father, husband, brother and friend, who died of cancer on June 21, 2010 in Wilmington, NC. Mike was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa on September 18, 1948, to Bernie and Georgia Malone. The family moved to Southern California in Mike's early years where he embraced the sport of surfing which would become a lifelong love. The family then moved to Price, Utah where Mike would form many lasting friendships, from fishing buddies to skiing buddies. He graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1966 and shortly thereafter joined the Marine Corps and served honorably in Vietnam. It was while he was in the Marine Corps stationed at Cherry Point, NC, that he met his future wife and best friend Jane Garrison. Mike and Jane moved to Salt Lake City, Utah where Mike attended the University of Utah. He was employed for almost twenty years at Holy Cross Hospital. Mike and Jane moved to Wilmington, NC in 1994 where Mike worked as an IT specialist for New Hanover County and most recently at the NC State Port Authority. Mike had an affable style and friendships always came easily. He was never quick to judge; held out a helping hand, and gave his friendship readily. His love and knowledge of music were legendary. He fought a brave fight against cancer and now we wish him peace and love on his last journey. Mike is survived by his loving wife of forty years, Jane of Wilmington, NC, his brother, Pat Malone Judy of Portland, OR, sister, Mollie Malone, Salt Lake City, UT, and brother, Danny Malone. He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Jason Russell Malone, mother, Georgia Malone, and father Bernie Malone. A memorial service in celebration of Mike's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, June 24, 2010 at Andrews Mortuary Market Street Chapel. The family will receive friends at the mortuary from 1:00 p.m. Thursday until the service hour. The family wishes to thank the team from Lower Cape Fear Hospice for their compassionate care. We would also like to thank the members of the Wrightsville Beach Longboard Association. WBLA who gave us so much love, help and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC, 28401, or the Wrightsville Beach Longboard Association, P.O.Box 541, Wrightsville Beach, NC, 28480.