George Elwood Malin

GEORGE ELWOOD MALIN
April 17, 1935 ˜ July 9, 2025

George Elwood Malin, lovingly known as “Woody,” passed away peacefully on July 9, 2025, in Vancouver, WA, at the age of 90.

Born on April 17, 1935, in Portland, OR, Woody spent his early years in Gladstone, OR, running through the woods and backroads of Clackamas County. He later raised his children in Orenco and Hillsboro before settling in Vancouver, WA, in 1983, where he spent the last 42 years of his life enjoying the Columbia River he loved so deeply.

Woody graduated from Multnomah College in 1968 and spent 25 years working as an electrical engineer, eventually retiring from Tektronix as an engineering manager. He also proudly served in the Oregon Army National Guard, stationed at Camp Withycombe in the motor pool.

He married Persis Barbara Overton on August 29, 1975, sharing more than 50 years together.

He is survived by his children: Brian (Gina) Malin of Vancouver, WA; Christina Loy of Vancouver, WA; Shan’n (John) Sanders of Santa Rosa, CA; and Jay (Marcie) Herbert of Vancouver, WA. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren Jaimie, Andy, Ryan, Joleen, Jacob, Mallorie, Marissa, and Jaylinn and a growing number of great-grandchildren.

Woody was preceded in death by his parents, George Malin and Lynn Goldson Malin, and is survived by his siblings Joan Krzmarzick, Jerry (Jackie) Malin, Patty Miller, and David (Carol) Malin including many niece’s, nephew’s and cousin’s.

A man of endless curiosity and energy, Woody was never far from a project. He remodeled many homes, each with his personal touch. He was an avid motorcyclist, flat-track racer, pilot, skier, scuba diver, dune buggy builder, and trail rider. He lived life to the fullest flying planes, skiing Mt. Hood, and diving in Hawaii and the San Juan Islands, but was just as happy hunting for a good deal at the thrift store or watching the river from his favorite chair with a hot cup of coffee in hand.

Woody had a gift for storytelling, always eager to reminisce and share photos from “the good ol’ days.” His love for hands-on work, sense of humor, and appreciation for the simple things made a lasting impression on those around him.

His family would like to thank the many friends who walked beside him through the years. He never stopped talking about the people and adventures that shaped his life.

A small memorial service will be held on July 20 at 12:30 p.m. at Evergreen Memorial Gardens.
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