Search by Name

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

DEAN MALSACK Obituary

Dean Malsack, professional pianist, died at age 59, who began playing piano at the tender age of 5 and who lit up many a room with his charm and charisma entered into eternal life on June 26, 2012. Dean, who had a million dollar smile, played and taught piano professionally for many years and touched so many lives. Dean was well known in the area for his talent and personality. Dean was preceded in death by his father Roland, and leaves behind his Mother Ruth Nancy Malsack-Lipman; step-father William Lipman; and siblings, Gail (Alston), Lynne, Paula (Hayes), Carl and Joyce (Potempa) and many friends both personal and professional. There will be a visitation from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass starting at 10:30 on Friday, July 6 at Notre Dame Church in Clarendon Hills. Immediately following the service there will be a small gathering in O'Keefe Hall at Notre Dame Parish.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Jul. 2, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for DEAN MALSACK

49 Entries

Lucy Boucher

June 26, 2023

Sometimes, when I listen to Dean's CD, my heart hurts. All the times I walked into BVCC when he would play Pachelbel's Cannon for me.

Lucy

June 26, 2021

I will be playing your cd today and thinking of how amazing you were.

David Morgan

January 6, 2021

I took piano lessons from Dean's father, Roland, while growing up in Clarendon Hills, long ago and far away now. I remember Dean. These are the threads that weave the fabric of our lives. Those who teach, those who make music, make us. We are their continuity and will pay it forward to those who follow us. God bless the Malsack family.

DIANE TELANDER

June 26, 2020

I still think about him a lot. He will always be missed. Great guy. I hope he's tickling the ivories in Heaven because I am looking forward to my next concert someday.

Lucy Boucher

June 26, 2020

Dean's music is still beautiful. He would play Pachelbel's Cannon in D for me when I walked in. Touched my heart. Still see his beautiful smile.

Lucy Boucher

June 27, 2019

I play his cds every year on this day.

Mary

January 30, 2013

Dean was such a joyful special person. We enjoyed his visits to the bank and hearing about his concerts and most recently his trip to Italy. We had no idea that he had passed only that we have not seen him for quite some time. Our condolences go out to his family and friends.

Bob Byerly

January 3, 2013

I have known Dean and his family since 1956. In fact, his father gave me piano lessons at one time. Dean was a great friend, and I know he will be missed by all his current friends and family.

September 26, 2012

How saddened we are to have just learned of Dean's death, three months to the date after his passing. We were next door neighbors to Dean for several years. We always enjoyed hearing him play. Our favorite time of year was when we could have our windows open and we could hear such beautiful music wafting from Dean's piano room.

Dean was always so kind and considerate and caring. He always had a smile and a wave for us, even if he was quickly driving off to his next performance or to the gym to work out. He always had time to talk and was always interested in what was going on in life.

Dean was so gracious and giving and often would snowblow our driveway in the middle of the night after a huge snow storm.

We always enjoyed hearing about his travels and where he was going next.

We were so sad when Dean moved away to a smaller place with no outdoor upkeep. We understood why but we missed him terribly. But, even with that, he was still looking out for his neighbors, making sure he found a great couple to purchase his home and to continue on the closeknit cul-de-sac neighborhood.

One August Dean came to our church and performed a variety of wonderful songs for an ice cream social we sponsored. Such a joy, such a talent, such a giving man.

We treasure the CD's we have of Dean's musical talents and we love them, as we loved Dean.

Someday, our friend, we will see you again. Until then, continue to grace Heaven with your beautiful music.

Ken and Mona Walker
Former Neighbors and Elgin, Illinois residents, now of Hendersonville, Tennessee

Joseph Pashka

August 7, 2012

Hats off, lads! We all will miss him.

July 28, 2012

My husband always loved talking to Dean about music. One evening he told Dean that his favorite song was "Song for Guy" by Elton John. It almost entirely an instrumental. Dean quietly remembered the conversation, learned the song, and a few weeks later played it at the BVGC. It was hauntingly beautiful. Many friends gathered around the piano in awe of his exquisite rendition. Even Sir Elton John would have been touched.

Rest in peace. Your many friends will miss you and your musical gifts.

Robert & Kristine Hall

Craig & Lynn Greiwe

July 27, 2012

We just heard the news and are so saddened. We knew him from the Loretto Convent in Wheaton and he played at our wedding 13 years ago. Anytime we came to Loretto's Gala, and he saw us, he would play our song. He was such a wonderful man. He will be missed.

Lucy Boucher

July 17, 2012

I have so many of Dean's cd's signed "To My Biggest Fan". What a light he was in the world. I will always remember the dances Tom and I shared to his music.

Gail and Ken Jackson

July 16, 2012

Dean will always be remembered in our home. We so loved his wonderful spirit. He always had a smile and a tune for you. We were very saddened by the news but know in our hearts that he is somewhere dancing in a celestial place. We will miss him and cherish the joy he brought so many people

Karyn Young Handy

July 13, 2012

Dean and I attended the Homecoming Dance together, Freshman year at Hinsdale Central. He was a really sweet guy then and I am not surprised to hear all these great things about him now. My condolences to his family and all of those who are feeling this profound loss.

Kathie Nicolet

July 13, 2012

Dean was a friend/colleague of mine. Such a sweet soul - a fine musician, and a gentleman. We have lost an excellent pianist and a very talented/kind man. Rest In Peace, Dean.

Len & Dolores Kazmer

July 12, 2012

We met Dean first at Bull Valley and were drawn to him right away. We loved his music and his warmth. Later he played at our sons wedding reception and made that day extra special. We will miss him.

Len & Dolores Kazmer

July 11, 2012

Dean was a year older tham me and played piano in the Hinsdale High School stage band where I also played. He was so much more talented than me, I was in awe. Despite our skill difference, he patiently gave me tips. Over the years when I remember the High Notes and Low Notes bands, I picture Dean. I'm so sad.
Steve McCool, Austin, TX

Kristine Gross

July 11, 2012

To Nancy Malsack and Family,

We are so saddened by your loss and our hearts and prayers go out to you. Dean was a very special, talented human being and the world is a little darker without his warm and kind presence. May he rest in peace.

All our love,
The Gross Family

Brian Treacy

July 9, 2012

Having worked many years at both The Anvil Club and at Bull Valley Golf Club I know what a wonderful man Dean was. Ho gracious, always returning attention back to us admirers. That Dean very rarely let us even know that he was hurting was a true test of character.
We will miss you.

Matt Saunders

July 7, 2012

Dean was a wonderful teacher and always had a smile on his face. While I am still in mourning over losing the best piano teacher ever, I have committed to playing the piano as a rememberance of Dean's gift to me.

Dean and the Steve Grobl Orchestra, Champaign, IL 2008

July 7, 2012

Guitar and Piano, Jack Jr and Dean, Venice, Italy

SGO

July 6, 2012

Jack Jr, Steve, Dean, Jack Marchese, Sr

SGO

July 6, 2012

Boarding band bus Bologna, Italy

SGO

July 6, 2012

Dean, Steve, Tony, Mike in Porretta, Italy

July 6, 2012

Trevi Fountain, Rome

July 6, 2012

Dean and Steve departing Rome, Italy 7/2011

Steve Grobl

July 6, 2012

Our drummer during the mid to late 1980's, Clark Chaffee, introduced me to Dean. During that time we were running with a three piece rhythm section of drums, bass, and guitar. Shortly thereafter I needed a sub for the guitar and called Dean. After just one job John Gorman and I knew Dean could take the band up a quantum leap or two.
It was widely thought that where he was performing upwards of 300 solo gigs and engagements leading his own band every year he would have no real interest in signing on to a less lucrative big band opportunity.
Dean signed his first subcontractor's agreement with us in 1989 and missed only one job over the ensuing 23 years. That job was New Year's Eve 1996 at the Woodstock Opera House/Tavern on the Square.
Exactly one year ago today Dean and the band were touring Rome, Italy after performing two engagement's for the Magelli Family, our best client.
Dean did so much behind the scenes, quietly, for last year's Italy gig. He so very much wanted to give back to Carolyn and Paul for all they have done for the band over the last three decades. His solo arrangements of their favorite tunes was his last CD and for them it means more than his various Grammy nominated CDs.
It was vintage Dean; 10 non-stop, action packed days in Italy with little indication of the pain he was in.
Many voiced concerns as to Dean's ability to make the Italy trip. Having only missed one engagement for me over the years, I figured he would deliver as he always had done. Dean's being with us made the trip a truly enjoyable experience forever etched in the memories of not only the band members but also the memories of the thousands he performed for.
In 1989 Dean not only signed on but made this band his number one booking priority. He was a band leader's dream; a consummate showman, an excellent pianist, a walking music library, a genuinely fine human being, a fighter until the end.
I do not know how it will be to perform without him.
Goodbye Dean,
Steve Grobl and the entire Steve Grobl Orchestra

Jan Koranda

July 6, 2012

Dean was just a really nice person someone everyone enjoyed being with. Although he was not able to make our last high school reunion he gave me some wonderful ideas and was extremely helpful

Steve Tracy

July 6, 2012

Dean was a terrific high school friend – extremely talented, out-going and cheerful. May the Holy Spirit provide comfort to all his family and friends.

Kyle Johnson

July 6, 2012

I started piano lessons with Nancy at age 6 - it was a gift for my 6th birthday. After 10 years, I switched to Dean to learn jazz, blues, and improv...while Nancy taught me the technical aspects and discipline of the piano, Dean has allowed me to sit down at any piano and play for as long as I want, with or without music in front of me. I've been able to play at Christmas parties and make some cash during college, I was able to play in a band after college for a few years...none of which would have been possible without Dean. Between me and my sister, we were with the Malsacks for 20 years. I can honestly say that I have experienced things and met people through music and the ability that they gave me that would have never been possible, and I'll have this ability for the rest of my life. Whenever the world loses a musician, it's sad because it's one less person to share something amazing. To lose someone like Dean Malsack...the world has lost not only a great musician, but a great person. R.I.P Dean....and thanks.

Mark Sorlie

July 6, 2012

What can I say. Dean will be missed. His personality and musicianship was well known and far reaching. Of course he spent a lot of time entertaining by himself, but I was blessed to have played some blues with him and Geneva Red a number of times and in other situations. Rest in peace my friend.

Pam Heintz Fischer

July 6, 2012

As a classmate of Dean's in high school, I was always in awe of his talent. That awe grew into deep admiration, not only for his talent but for the most wonderful, caring person he became. Heaven will add to their celestial music with Dean on the keyboard. He will be missed.

Lindsey Bouton

July 6, 2012

I am incredibly saddened by this news. I so enjoyed reconnecting with Dean during our work on the 25th HTHSC reunion as I know everyone did. He was a gentleman, a genuinely nice guy and a great musical talent. I will always remember how wonderful he was when he played at my parents 50th surprise wedding anniversary party, how he and I sat side by side as he played a random piano in the hallway of the hotel ... into the wee hours of the night at our 25th reunion. I always think of him when I play his Christmas CD. Sincerest condolences and prayers for his eternal happiness. He will be missed.

Tom Dorn

July 5, 2012

Playing music and working with Dean in the Hi-Notes and our various small groups was one of the most valuable experiences of my life. I learned a great deal from Dean about music and about being a professional, but mostly I remember having fun. Dean will truly be missed.

Ron & Arlene Black

July 5, 2012

We met Dean at the Anvil Club, oh so many years ago. We moved to Bull Valley and and we were blessed that he was playing "our songs" at the Golf Club.
Dean was a wonderful, caring, loving
talented young man. We lost him too soon.
May he rest in peace in the arms of Lord Jeasus Christ.

Entertaining guests in Italy

Paula Magelli Davenport

July 5, 2012

Quintessential Dean on his LP cover

The Family of Paul Magelli

July 5, 2012

he Magelli Family and the nearly 500 who celebrated in Castel Di Casio, Italy last year will always carry the sounds of his music in our hearts and cherish our time with this penultimate musician and gentle soul. He was a joy to hear and his kind and encouraging way with young musicians and singers was genuinely beautiful.

Debra and Harry Vignocchi

July 3, 2012

Bull Valley Golf Club will never be the same without Dean. He was as much a part of the Club as was the golf course. Each and every one of us would always know that when we walked in the music would change to "our" song! Dean remembered everyone and they will certainly remember him....and miss him as well. May you and your gentle soul rest in peace.

Clark Chaffee

July 3, 2012

Dean and I first met in the Hi Notes, just before I left for Interlochen. Even as a dorky freshman, Dean was an amazing musician and a good friend.
For over a decade, I had the joy of being in various groups with Dean. We played hundreds of gigs, duos up to quintets, we even played in the Grobl big band together before I moved to Texas. No matter how seriously his health issues were getting, he always wanted to play the gigs, he always maintained the highest level of musicianship, and the highest level of customer service. Sometimes he'd have to rest during the breaks to make it through the evening but the customers never knew what he was going through.

He's the only pianist I ever knew who could be holding on a conversation while shaking hands with the customer and keeping the tune going with his left hand, even trading 4s with me.

Working with Dean was always an adventure. No matter how many times we played a tune it was always fresh & he always had interesting new twists to add.
Ellie and I thoroughly enjoyed working with Dean. We also deeply appreciated his sense of humor, particularly when he was helping us cope with difficult times in our lives. He was a very loyal friend.
The strength and dignity that he showed through decades brightening the lives of so many others while dealing with so many health issues are inspiring. How many times did I say to myself "If Dean can deal with that, I can deal with this"?
While I am deeply saddened by his loss, it is nice to know that he is no longer in pain, that Heaven has better music than ever, and that Dean is busy booking gigs for us when our time comes.
Dean, we all love you and miss you very much!

Thomas Van Hove

July 3, 2012

Dean was one of the finest,caring and loving human beings I have ever known.We worked together for a time,he was my Best man at my wedding and truely a great friend back then.Even though our career paths went in other directions,his in music, mine in law enforcement,I never stopped to think about him over these past 30 yrs or so.I'm so deeply saddend by his passing,but what an amazing musician God has in his Kindom now.I Love Ya Dean. I can still hear you calling me TOMTOM.

Jennifer Osmundson

July 3, 2012

Dean wrote and recorded a song for me that he titled "Seeing the Love in Your Eyes" when we were together. Well, he was the type of individual to bring that love out of anyone who heard him play or saw him or spoke to him. Those three years I will hold in my heart forever. I will remember most how sincere and genuine he was and the joy he brought into my life and my family...and the memories that will continue to keep us smiling.

Doug Heil

July 3, 2012

The Hinsdale Central Hi-Notes jazz band had such a wonderful team spirit during my junior year, and much of our solidarity can be attributed to Dean. He treated us younger students as equals, and his leadership was graced with a respect for others, a delightful sense of humor, and of course, a deep commitment to music. I hadn't seen or talked to him for three decades when I contacted him for advice on a creative project. We exchanged our music CDs and shared two long phone conversations I have treasured. (It was as if no time had elapsed.) Both in youth and in middle age, Dean has been a supportive, generous friend and a positive influence. It's been a privilege knowing him.

What a wonderful human being. Glad we got to spend time in Italy with him and the Steve Grobl Orchestra one yr ago.

Karen and Gary Parker

July 3, 2012

This is Dean in Italy one yr ago. We were blessed to play a job with the Steve Grobl Orchestra with Dean. How blessed we are to have great memories.

Karen and Gary Parker

July 3, 2012

Rosemary and Ray Sobczak

July 2, 2012

Our deepest condolences. We're sorry we will not be able to attend the service.
We will always think of Dean with a smile.

Diane Telander

July 2, 2012

I loved Dean Malsack. He always thought of others first. I will miss him so very much. Heaven is a much brighter place with him there now.

July 2, 2012

I am deeply saddened by this news. I always looked up to Dean as a musician when we were in high school. He had a great talent and willingness to share it with others. I can still see his smiling face. That is enough for me.

Brian Q. Torff

John Russell Ghrist

July 2, 2012

Our listeners will certainly miss Dean. For several years, we did Christmas programs together on Midwest Ballroom on WDCB. I was introduced to Dean by singer Joan Hammel at one of her events. Our radio show covered many of his appearances. Some were coordinated by Barb Marik at the Schaumburg Library. I will play some highlights soon on the program. I will always appreciate Dean's thoughful mention of our radio show in the liner notes of his last CD "Frankly Dean's Way." We will continue to play his fine music on our program.

Showing 1 - 49 of 49 results