Ellanor Afton Malinowski

Ellanor Malinowski

December 9, 1936 – February 26, 2026

Ellanor Malinowski, beloved mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and devoted friend to many, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, in San Rafael, California. She was 89 years old. Born Ellanor Afton Spranger on December 9, 1936, in Teaneck, New Jersey, to Edward J. Spranger and Margaret Spranger, she made California her home in 1958 and built a life — known to all as Ellanor Malinowski — rich with warmth, quiet wit, and a spirit that left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Ellanor dedicated 30 remarkable years to the telecommunications industry, building her career through AT&T, Pacific Bell, and its family of companies. Starting at entry level, she worked her way up through the ranks to management — a testament to her quiet determination and steady competence. She was a steadfast professional who took quiet pride in a job well done — and the lifelong friendships she forged with her fellow Phone Company colleagues became one of her greatest treasures. Chief among those bonds was the beloved "Old Farts Birthday Club" (OFBC), a group of retirees whose spirited gatherings and shared memories brought her immeasurable joy in her later years.

Ellanor had a deep and genuine appreciation for the arts. She was a devoted patron of the San Francisco Opera and held season tickets to the theater, embracing the magic of live performance with enthusiasm and a discerning eye. Those who knew her well savored her understated manner and the dry, quick wit that could surface at just the right moment — delivered with a perfectly straight face.

In quieter moments, Ellanor could be found working her way through the New York Times crossword, losing herself in a good murder mystery, or turning out something wonderful from her kitchen. She was an accomplished cook and baker — a skill her grandchildren knew well come birthday time, when she would produce elaborate, decorated cakes that were as much a work of art as they were a treat. She also delighted in hosting fondue parties for friends and family, bringing people together around the table in her own convivial style. And at special occasions, a well-made Manhattan suited her just fine.

Ellanor also had a deep affection for the natural world, finding particular joy in the rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast, the grandeur of Yosemite, and the tidepools at Point Lobos near Carmel — where she could spend hours exploring the rocky shores of the California she had made her home.

Family was the very center of Ellanor's world. She cherished her Wednesday dinners with her son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren as they were growing up — evenings filled with stories, laughter, and the comfort of togetherness.

Ellanor is survived by her son, Jason Malinowski, of Marin County; her daughter-in-law, Kimberli Bearly, of Marin County; and her grandchildren, Cayman Bearly-Malinowski of New York City and Kendall Bearly-Malinowski of Barcelona, Spain.

The family is currently determining the arrangements for a memorial service and will share details when available.

The family kindly requests no flowers or gifts. Those who wish to honor Ellanor's memory are encouraged to consider a donation to Emily's List (emilyslist.org) or Planned Parenthood (plannedparenthood.org) in her name, causes that she supported throughout her life.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.