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Henry Malek Obituary
Henry S. Malek Veteran WW II; beloved husband of Helen, nee Wdzieczna; loving father of Henry (Becky), Nancy (Geoff) Steele, Judy (Dennis) Murphy, Michael, William (Laurie Fleck) and Connie (John) Bava; grandfather of Melissa (Chris), Jessica, Amanda, Brittany, Michael, Lindsey, Christina and Christopher; great-grandfather of Brooke Lynn; fond brother of Stanley (Joanne), Wanda (the late Ben) Senderak and Evelyn (the late Erv) Krawchuk; uncle and great-uncle of many nieces and nephews. Funeral Saturday, Jan. 22 at 9:15 a.m. from Baran Funeral Home, 2644-46 N. Central Ave. to St. Hedwig Church. Mass 10 a.m. Interment St. Adalbert Cemetery. Member of Teamsters Local #705 Turck Drivers Union, Chicago Federation of Musicians Local 10 - 208 AFM. Visitation Friday 3 to 9 p.m. 773.622.1488 www.BaranFuneralHome.com 
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Memories and Condolences
for Henry Malek
Nancy
January 14, 2023
Oh my dear father, years have past without you here and, yet, I feel your presence around me. The village I live in is filled with musicians that I surround myself with. Each time they perform, I know that you are playing along or beep-bop pin´. You have made a huge impression on Geoff and the kids, as well as myself.
You will always be a part of us. As I said the day I left to go back to Australia, I´ll see you n heaven someday. Love you madly! God is with you, your Nancy
Judy Murphy
January 14, 2021
Oh Dad how I miss you so! I can't believe it's been 10 years already! I will always treasure the days at Therapy Tuesdays at Major Hal, dancing up a storm. I was always so proud of your playing, keyborard or accordian. Like Michael said, your music still plays in my head. Just thinking of you brightens my day. Until we meet again Dad! Love you dearly!
Michael Malek
January 14, 2021
Dad , I cant believe it is been Ten years since you left us . Your music still plays in my head when I think of you. How much I enjoyed listening and watching you play .You will never be forgotten and i can't wait till the day we meet again. Love and miss you dearly, Michael
Billy
January 14, 2020
I miss you more and more each day Daddio! It's seems like yesterday that I was sitting at the Bar with you at the ole Narragansett Inn. You drinking a cold Meister Brau and me drinking a coke and eating a Slim Jim.Lobe you always Dad.
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January 18, 2012
I cant believe its been a year already.I miss you dearly Dad.Please watch over Mom.Im sure you and Lauries Dad are throwing back a few.I just wish I could share another one with you.I Love You.
Billy aka #5
Connie Bava
January 17, 2012
Dearest Uncle,
I often wonder what you are doing. Are you having a beer with my dad. Are you playing the polka for my mother to dance to. I know you are in a much better place. I miss you so very much. You were my rock and I thank you so very much for that. I feel your presence around me often and I know you are looking down on all of us.
When I hear the song "My Way" which you always sang and played for me, I now sing it for you.
Your loving niece,
Connie
Nancy
January 15, 2012
It's almost been a year. You are always in my thoughts and in my heart. Life has not been the same without you. I will go on and strive for happiness as it is what you always wanted for all of us. I know that you are in a better place. You are so loved. I hope you knew that.
Karen Maurer
January 29, 2011
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with your mom, and all of you during this difficult time. My favorite memory is of him playing Polka's - it is instilled in my memory...what wonderful memories. Thank you, Hank.
And thank you to his family for sharing him with us!You all hold a special place in my heart...always.
Nancy Steele
January 24, 2011
My unbelievably generous Dad helped many people in his life, but I must admit, he probably ended up helping me the most. Whenever I asked him for help, he would be there tenfold. He was always a gentleman taking on duties of a real man, a real husband, a real father, and a real grand-father. From scraping your car and starting it for you in wintertime to picking you up from school, work, the airport...it never stopped. And he never complained. It’s almost as if he enjoyed it. He made me feel so important and so loved.
My fondest memories of my Dad were the sing-a-longs we had with him. Mom, Judy and I would take out the songbooks, and he would play our requests while we sang to them. Mom and I loved the torch songs the best. Never have I ever heard a better polka then one played by my Dad. He put his heart and soul into it. You had to get up and dance. It was as if his music possessed you and magically swept you up onto the dance floor. That’s probably how Connie, Judy and I became such good polka dancers. He willed it.
Dad never wanted to be considered just a polka player, though. He dug music, especially jazzy tunes. Beginning when we were teenagers, he would ask Judy and I to sing some of the newer tunes he heard on the radio, and he would just learn it right there. He didn’t really need to get the music; he was a natural with a musical ear. However, nothing was better than being lulled to a well-needed afternoon nap by my Dad when he was practicing for a gig. His music was like a gentle breeze that kissed away all my troubles and sent me into dreamland. I loved that.
Dad loved his beer, especially in his younger years. He would say to the bartender, “I’ll have a big, big, big one!” As he grew older, he became accustomed to red wine. I will cherish the evenings when him and I would sit out on his balcony or even just at the kitchen table and have a Merlot together. I think he cherished those times, too. When he said the word “Merlot,” he always said it with a French accent... “Merlot”. Our conversations would start out with what was happening in the present and end up with what happened when he was in the war. I heard those war stories over and over again, but they always amazed me. I couldn’t believe how many times God spared his life. He spared his life a few times after that, too. God was good to us for letting us keep him this long.
My father was a strong man who would risk anything for his family. I can’t tell you how many times he put rowdy drunkards that cussed in front of his family into their place. He would walk right up to them, take out that warning finger, point it right at them, and tell them to watch their language in front of his family. As he got older and continued to do this, it got a little scary. I’d look at my brothers and think...”hum...are they old enough to back him if things get a little rough?”
He was not afraid of anything and he gave it his all. He even showed it to me when I said good-bye to him. Unable to talk and barely unable to move at this point, I went to give my Dad a kiss on his lips. He always kissed us on our lips and pursed his lips like a goldfish. Well, I knew he wouldn’t be able to kiss me, but I kissed him on the lips like usual. Just as I started to walk away, Judy called me back. There was my Daddy, weakened by severe illness, pursing those lips as hard as he could to give me my last kiss.
Dad, you were utterly amazing, and you’ll always be my Hero. As I told you before, if anything ever happens to either one of us, we will meet in Heaven. In the meantime, enjoy those who went before you and have a fantastic time! I love you, Dad.
Nancy
Gloria & Tom Mroz
January 23, 2011
To The Family....
We are very saddened to hear of your loss. May God grant you peace and acceptance. Our hearts are heavy for your entire family. We are friends of Billy and Laurie from the Wolves.
Gloria and Tom Mroz
Roman & Lorraine (Travers) Truskolaski
January 23, 2011
What else can be said that hasn't been said already...Hank was the greatest guy in the world...I know because I played along side him for the last eighteen years with the Pensionaires Polka Band. Lorraine and Helen were also very close holding down the gate at Major Hall. He will be sincerely missed.
Grampa loves his girls
January 21, 2011
Michaels Graduation
January 21, 2011
Connie, Tina, and Gramps (sitting on the floor as usual)
January 21, 2011
Party Time
January 21, 2011
Amanda and Gramps
January 21, 2011
Steven and Gramps
January 21, 2011
carol bryan
January 21, 2011
I will always remember looking out our front window and seeing you load up your car with all the instruments for the band. You were a great friend to my parents and to me also. I will miss you but I know that you are in a better and beautiful place. Watch over and guide your wife and family. My condolences to your entire family.
January 21, 2011
I was honored with the privilege of meeting Mr. Malek on several occasions over the years. Me being a fellow musician we had plenty to talk about. He always had a soft spoken calm voice that had a tone of confidence. I would cherish those conversations and look forward to the next encounter we may have. He truly was a real American father who seemed to love life and his family. His smile was infectious and it too brought a feeling of joy. I regret not getting another chance to sit with this fine gentle man to discuss the secrets of life. As my eyes dry I will remember him with great fondness.
No one ever leaves us as long as we keep their memories close.
My thoughts go out to Michael and the Malek family.
January 21, 2011
Dear Michael,
Our depest sympathy to you and your family. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
The Julkowski Family,
Stan, Joanne, Lisa, Laura and Josie.
Laurie Fleck
January 21, 2011
When I hear music I will think of you and my heart will sing.
I mourn your passing but celebrate the mark you have left on this Earth. Your kindness, your joy, your compassion, your very being.
I am proud to have known you and was blessed to have you as a Father-in-law.
Every time I see a crystal clear sky, I will be reminded of your sparkling blue eyes that spoke volumes though you may not have uttered a single word.
I know you will give me a sign that you are still here, now watching over us and I will know that you are at peace.
Dennis and Lee
January 21, 2011
We knew Hank and Helen for the past few years as I played the clarinet and saxophone along side of Hank and my wife, Lee, would socialize with Helen throughout the gig. Hank was a great musician, but even a greater person - I think he even liked me. My wife and his also seemed to like each other. We both offer our sympathy to Helen and Hank's family and friends.
Nancy Steele
January 21, 2011
January 21, 2011
I remember all the times when my parents Ted (Helen Malek's cousin) and Lorraine Kuczak would go dancing to all the functions that Hank and Gabe use to play at. There was one time at St. Hedwig's carnival, they were playing in the basement of the school and I always enjoyed the "Beer Barrel Polka". Great times and wonderful memories....may you rest in peace Hank. Andrea Kuczak
January 21, 2011
I am so proud and grateful to have been able to be so close to such an amazing man. My Grand Pa is the grandest man I will ever know. He would do absolutely anything for his family, bearing an enormous heart. He filled my world with joy, music and somehow always knew how to put a smile on my face.
Gramps, growing up under your wing carried immeasurable memories. I cherish every moment we shared. I love you and I miss you so much.
Love always,
Mandy
Geoffrey Steele
January 20, 2011
When God made the mold for Henry Malek, he was a prototype "one of a kind" human being. Growing up in Chicago in its hey day, surviving five great battles under General Patton, marrying his sweetheart and raising a very close, loving family was his lot in life and he did it without so much as a sigh. For me, I really won the lottery and am truly grateful for being part of his life. As far as a man goes, his being a loving husband, unbelievable caring father and the kindest father in-law any man could ever have...is a benchmark very few men will attain. His guidance and caring was constant. Of the essence of what truly makes a great man he is a Gold Medal Olympian. My wife (Nancy), my children (Jessica, Amanda, Michael and Christina)and I will be lost without him and will forever miss him.
His music lives on in our children...
Geoffrey Steele
Cootamundra, Australia
Roz Longo
January 20, 2011
If it's true you can judge a man by what people say about him, then you were truly a great man, Over the forty years that I knew you I never once heard a bad word said about you.
You bought us joy and laughter with your music, but it wasn't the music that was so wonderful, it was you.
I know when you get to heaven they will be there to greet you, they will say "Welcome to Heaven Mr Malek," and you'll look up and smile and say "Please call me Hank."
We'll miss you Hank.
Roz Longo
January 20, 2011
If it's true you can judge a man by what people say about him, then you were truly a great man. For over forty years that I knew you I never heard a bad word said about you. You bought great joy and laughter in our lives with your music, but it wasn't the music that was so wonderful, it was you.
I know as you walk though the gates of heaven they will be waiting to greet you. They'll say "welcome to Heaven Mr Malek". You'll look up and smile and say ' Please, call me Hank"
We'll miss you...
alice miller
January 20, 2011
god bless you & rest in peace you will be missed as your were a wonderful person.My prayers are with you & your family through this sad & sorrowful time.
January 20, 2011
Malek family we always enjoyed henry's music at the 489th. reunions. We miss the reunions. Our prayers for the family. Gene & Polly Wright
OUR TRIP TO WASHINGTON D.C.
MICHAEL MALEK
January 20, 2011
MY DAD WAS A WONDERFUL MAN. HE WAS MY TEACHER,MY STORY TELLER AND MY BUDDY.HE WAS EVERYTHING A SON COULD DREAM OF A FATHER BEING AND A FAN OF ALL HIS CHILDREN.MY DAD ENLISTED IN THE ARMY TO FIGHT FOR HIS COUNTRY AND POLAND IN WW2 AND WAS A HONORED VET.WE HAD THE PLEASURE OF FLYING WITH HONOR FLIGHT CHICAGO THIS PAST JULY 14 TH. FLIGHT TO VISIT THE WW2, KOREAN AND VIETNAM WAR MEMORIALS.WHAT A GREAT TRIP.PLEASE CONTRIBUTE TO THIS ORGANIZATION AT HONORFLIGHTCHICAGO.ORG ANY WAY YOU CAN.IT'S A GREAT CAUSE AND THEY NEED YOUR HELP TO GET THESE VETS TO SEE THEIR MONUMENTS.IF YOU WERE MARRIED BETWEEN THE YEARS 1947 AND 2009 CHANCES ARE MY DAD PLAY AT YOUR WEDDING.HE WAS A PROUD AND LIFELONG MEMBER OF THE CHICAGO FEDERATION OF MUSICIANS LOCAL 10.208 AFM.HE WAS OUR VERY OWN MUSIC MAN AND A HELL OF A MUSICIAN.HE PLAY HIS ACCORDION LIKE A ROCK STAR AND BROKE MANY A STRAP.LATER IN LIFE PLAY THE KEYBOARDS WITH THE GROUP MAJOR PENTIONAIRES, A GROUP STILL PLAYING TODAY.THEY WERE SEEN ON CNN AND WILD CHICAGO.THEY PLAY ON TUESDAYS AND CALL IT THERAPY TUESDAY.A MEMBER OF THE TEAMSTERS LOCAL 705 TRUCK DRIVERS UNION MY DAD WORKED AT THE OLD ROSE AND SOUTH SHORE LIQUORS DISTRIBUTORS FOR APPROX. 38 YEARS.YOU COULD ALWAYS CATCH MY DAD WATCHING A GAME ON TV. HE LOVED ALL SPORTS BUT ESPECIALLY HIS CHICAGO BEARS AND WHITE SOXS.A LOVE HE INSTILLED IN ME.THE BEARS.THE SOXS WINNING THE WORLD SERIES.I'M SO GLADE WE WERE ABLE TO SHARE IN THIS.I WISH HE COULD SEE OUR BEARS WIN THE SUPERBOWL ONE MORE TIME.I WILL MISS HIM DEARLY.
January 20, 2011
Daddio!! The word "No" was not in your vocabulary.You always said "yes" to us, whenever we asked for anything.You were my Hero, and my Idol!!What I wouldnt give to see you play one more Polka.The words in the song, "Beer Barrell Polka were wrong!! There is Beer in Heaven, and its not O`Douls!!Have a cold one with Hank Kustra.I truly miss you,and I`ll always Love you.
Billy the Kid!!
Carl Meiser
January 20, 2011
He was one of my best friends. He always brought his music to our reunions. I will miss him.
Ron & Kim Brunke
January 20, 2011
Our deepest sympathy to the entire Malek family. You will be in our prayers at this time of sorrow. He is looking down at each of you with great pride!
Judy Malek-Murphy
January 20, 2011
Hey Dad,
Words can't express how much I'm missing you already. I know your at peace now, and playing in God's band already. Dad, you were our rock, our friend, our confidant, our family strength you were the best father in the world anyone could have. A very talented and much love person. Please watch over us all, and keep an eye on Mom, we promised you we would take good care of her and we will! Guide us in all the right directions. Your loving daughter, Judy
Becky Malek
January 20, 2011
Rest in peace Dad (father-in-law). I'm going to miss you saying "hi Bec-how 'bout a beer?" whenever I stopped by. You were a very talented musician and beloved by all. Your family will miss you and so do I. Love, Becky
Paula Catalano
January 20, 2011
CC's family sends out our thoughts and prayers to the entire Malek family.
January 20, 2011
This is my father, Henry s Malek. I will miss him very much,He was a great father, and a friend, always there for me,He was a Hero to his family and friends,He was a ww2 vet with the 4th Armoured Division
with the 489th,He served under General Patton,,,,,,,,,,,love you Dad, your son Henry m Malek Jr.
The Staff of Baran Funeral Homes, Ltd.
January 20, 2011
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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