David Malausky

David Malausky, 80, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on June 9, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who lived a life of purpose and passion, both as an educator and coach, and as a master storyteller. A time to celebrate this extraordinary man will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Bohnenkamp-Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Manchester.

Born on October 8, 1944, in Manchester, Connecticut, Dave was the son of William Malausky and Gertrude Zelonis. He graduated from high school in Manchester, Connecticut and went on to Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa, where he earned a football scholarship. That scholarship not only proved he could tackle just about anything, it also kicked off a lifelong love of sports and mentorship. He later earned a Master’s Degree from Loras College in Dubuque. Dave was united in marriage to Beverly Pleggenkuhle on December 23, 1968, in Dubuque, Iowa, and the couple was blessed with two children.

Dave spent his career guiding others as an educator and counselor. In 1986, he was named Iowa Counselor of the Year, but though those who knew him might argue he deserved it every year. His students and colleagues remember him not just for his wisdom, but for his ability to make people feel heard, supported, and occasionally laugh when they least expected it.

On the sidelines, Dave was truly in his element. He coached football and girls basketball with passion and purpose, instilling in his players the values of teamwork, perseverance, and when needed, a bit of tough love. Even after he hung up his coaching whistle, he remained a devoted fan, always ready to cheer on a good game. Dave also found peace in fishing, enjoying the quiet moments by the water. But perhaps one of his greatest talents was storytelling. He could spin a tale like no other, and while we suspected only about half of his stories were true, the real joy was in trying to figure out which half.

At the center of Dave’s world was his family. He is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife, Bev Malausky; daughter, Jennifer (Nathan) Morarend of Fairbank; son, Matthew Malausky of Cherokee; and four grandchildren who were the light of his life: Adam Gleason, Ella Morarend, Mallon Malausky, and Mahren Malausky. His grandkids knew him as a source of endless love, wisdom, and probably a few too many treats.

Dave’s warmth, generosity, and quick wit left a lasting impression on everyone he met. Whether offering guidance, sharing a laugh, or cheering from the bleachers, he made the world a better place.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Malausky and Gertrude Zelonis.

May his memory bring comfort, his stories bring smiles, and his legacy continue to inspire kindness, laughter, and maybe a little harmless exaggeration.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to be distributed at a later date.