Neal Malicky Obituary
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Born in Sour Lake, TX, to George and Ethel Malicky, his family settled in Baldwin, KS, where he attended Baker University, earned his undergraduate degree and met his future wife, Margi Wilson. They graduated in 1956, were married and had three sons-Michael, Eric and David. In 1959, he received a Master of Divinity degree from Southern Methodist University and served as a Methodist pastor in Peekskill, NY, while earning a doctorate in international affairs at Columbia University.
In 1969, he returned to Baker University as dean of the college and served as interim president in 1974. The family moved to Northeast Ohio in 1975 when he was named dean of the college and vice president for academic affairs at BW. He became BW president in 1981.
He was recognized widely for his personal warmth and inspirational leadership that helped BW to expand its undergraduate and graduate programs, increase its undergraduate enrollment to 4,500 students, and transform its campus through the renovation of established facilities and the construction of new ones. His vision of "Quality Education with a Personal Touch" remained a guiding principle throughout his career. He successfully led two fundraising campaigns with each setting a higher standard for BW.
Beyond his administrative abilities, he was a relationship-builder who touched thousands of lives, consistently inspiring individuals to achieve their best. Students said that they believed he knew each one by their first name. He championed diversity and inclusion, receiving the 1996 Humanitarian Award from the National Conference for Community and Justice.
Neal is survived by his sisters Georgann and Joyce, sons Michael (Heather) and Eric (Kathy); grandchildren Peter, Chris (Meredith), Hannah, James (Lisa), George and Caroline; great-grandchildren Natalie and Zachary; and companion Margaret Brooks-Terry. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margi and son, David.
A celebration of Neal's life will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, December 7, at the United Methodist Church of Berea.
In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to the Neal and Margi Malicky Scholarship Fund at Baldwin Wallace University, 275 Eastland Rd., Berea, OH, 44017.
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4 Entries
Lorna Engel
December 8, 2024
He was my pastor in Peekskill, NY. I remember him so well. What a kind, gentle soul. He is in the presence of JESUS.
Jim Carr
December 2, 2024
As a student, I met Dean Malicky at Baker University, in Baldwin City, Ks. back in the late sixties and early seventies. He was Dean of the University and interim President. As someone else mentioned, he was a great role model and a wonderful leader at Baker. He just had a flair about him that made you feel comfortable when visiting with him. He happened to be member of the same fraternity I was in, so I was able to see him later in life, on several occasions. He always remembered my name and was still that warm personality that I remembered. He will certainly be missed as he was one of those people who are impossible to replace. My deepest condolences!
Reginald D. Brooks
December 2, 2024
I´ve known Dr. Neal Malicky since 1975 when I was a Junior at Baldwin Wallace College and Neal had just joined the BW Administration as Dean of Academic Affairs.
Neal was very passionate in his love for BW, the students, faculty and staff. His dedication to service and improving the lives of others was evident throughout his career. Neal possessed great character, providing steady guidance and wisdom. Neal always seemed to maintain a calming presence, whether he was giving a speech, or he was just engaged in a personal conversation with you.
Neal was an exceptional leader for the entire BW Community. Under Neal´s guidance as President, BW expanded many educational opportunities for its students. Neal´s thoughtfulness and leadership skills made a big difference in the lives of so many people.
It was indeed a pleasure and an honor to have known Neal personally for all these years. I will always have fond memories of Neal, especially for his association with the phrase that he used as the title of his book. "Baldwin Wallace, Providing Education with a Personal Touch". That was the essence of Dr. Neal Malicky.
It's the end of an era and he will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences go out to the entire Malicky family.
Reggie Brooks
BW Class of 1977
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