Jack Malia

Obituary for Jack Malia
November 22, 1950 – September 13, 2025
Jack Malia, 74, of Lake Havasu City, Arizona, passed away peacefully at his home with family by his side on Saturday, September 13, 2025, after a valiant battle with cancer. He was born on November 22, 1950, and was raised in Hammond, Indiana.
Jack was one of six siblings and a proud veteran of the United States Army. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 52 years, Jill Malia; his parents, Kenneth and Theresa Malia; his brother, Kenny Malia; and his sisters, Marsha Alger, Cindy Dinga, and Kim Balousek. He is survived by his sister, Penny Malia of Chandler, Arizona; his son, Sean Malia (Lisa) and his three children of Henderson, Nevada; and his daughter, Shannon Madsen (Dave) and their two daughters, Haley and Faith, of Simi Valley, California. Jack also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, as well as five grandchildren.
It was in Hammond, Indiana, that Jack met his childhood sweetheart, Jill, with whom he built a family and a lifetime of loving memories. Jill was the love of his life and his forever companion through their 52 years of marriage. Together, they shared a passion for boating on Lake Havasu-his boat being his pride and joy-and loved hosting family and friends, where Jack's humor, hospitality, generosity, and friendship always shined through. Jack also had a lifelong love of basketball, which began in his youth and continued throughout his life. He not only played the game but also spent many years coaching.
Jack enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, where laughter, friendship, and good memories were always present. He also loved listening to oldies and country music, which often played in the background of his gatherings.
Jack had a lifelong passion for sports and especially loved cheering on his favorite teams: the Chicago Bears, Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Indiana Hoosiers basketball, and, his favorite, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish Football team.
Jack's family is deeply grateful for the love, support, kindness, and prayers he received during his extended battle with cancer.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.