Crystal K. Malik

Crystal K. Malik passed away peacefully on July 8th, 2025. She was born Crystal Carole Kirschbaum on December 18, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Marie Antoinette Turek Kirschbaum and William Frederick Kirschbaum II.

Crystal was raised in the Methodist faith and was active in her church from a young age, where she developed a lifelong love of music through singing in the choir and playing the piano. After meeting and marrying Melvin J. Malik, her husband of 53 years (now deceased), she converted to Catholicism. Together, they were beloved members of their parish, known for their dedication, volunteerism, and welcoming spirit. Crystal was known for her warmth, enthusiasm, and love of people.

Her family's entrepreneurial spirit began early - her father and his twin brother started a business at age 12, selling Willard Batteries. That business eventually grew into a retail store offering appliance and radio sales and repair. Crystal began working in the store at a young age and later ran the business, Willard's Audio & TV, with Mel. The store thrived and enabled the couple to retire early to the mountains of North Carolina. They later relocated to Estero, Florida, where they founded M.C.M. Travel and explored many parts of the world together. Costa Rica was among Crystal's favorite destinations.

Following Mel's passing, Crystal remained deeply involved in her retirement community, organizing social events, coordinating group trips, and extending hospitality to newcomers. In 2019, she moved to Brandywine Senior Living in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, to be closer to her daughter, Patricia West. There, too, she was a vibrant presence-singing in the Brandywine vocal ensemble and enjoying musical performances by her son-in-law Dan McDonald and his musician friends.

Crystal is survived by her children Laurel, Jerry, and Patricia West (Dan McDonald); four grandchildren, TK, Autumn West (Taylor Overholser), Nathaniel West (Emeline Chong), and Mark; and one great-grandchild, Arlo Overholser West. In addition to her husband Mel, she was preceded in death by her brother, William Kirschbaum III, her son, Melvin Jeffrey, and her daughter-in-law, Pamela.

A private family service will be held in Estero, Florida, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Crystal's memory may be made to Delaware Hospice. Memorial gifts can be made online, by phone, or via check.