Robert Mali Obituary
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Bob was born in Sharon, Pennsylvania, on August 18, 1932. He entered the Aviation Cadet Program in 1953 and earned his wings in 1954. He earned a BA in Electrical Engineering from Oklahoma State University and an MS from the University of Southern California in Research and Development Systems Management. Over the course of a distinguished 31-year military career, Bob served in the United States Air Force, where he flew 177 missions in Southeast Asia in an RF-101 aircraft. In 1974 he rose to the rank of Colonel, earning him the nickname of "the boy Colonel". His final post was as Vice Commander of the Air Force Satellite Control Facility at Sunnyvale Air Force Station (Onizuka), California.
His military decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross (with Oak Leaf Cluster), Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal (with nine Oak Leaf Clusters), Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. He also earned the Master Space Badge and was recognized in 1983 by the Air Force Association with its Meritorious Service Award. After retiring from the Air Force, Bob continued his career at Ford Aerospace, applying his expertise in top-secret operations.
Beyond his career, Bob was known for his love of adventure, travel, and cycling. Together with his wife, Carol, he enjoyed bike tours throughout the U.S. and Europe, and he remained an active member of the Military Officers Association of America.
Bob leaves behind the love of his life, Carol Feller Mali, with whom he shared decades of love, travel, and family. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kathryn. He is survived by his children James C. Mali (Karen), Robert P. Mali (Kimberly), and Kristine Mali Hyde (Richard). Bob also leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren: Nicole (Luke), Jack, Morgan, Sam, Christian, Catharine, and Christian.
Colonel Mali will be remembered for his integrity, leadership, his service to country, and his devotion to family. His life was one of honor, courage, and love - a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him.
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12341 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road, Saratoga, CA 95070
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