MALLEK, John

MALLEK John - The life of John Mallek. It is with profound sadness that the family of John Victor Mallek announces his passing on July 22, 2012. After a courageous battle with brain cancer, he died peacefully at home with his family by his side. John was born in Chapleau, Ontario on September 7, 1955 to Freda (Newman) and the late John Mallek and was raised in Levack Ontario, along with his sisters, Debbie and Kathy. An avid sportsman and devoted Habs fan, he began playing hockey at an early age, on a rink made by his dad in their back yard. He attended local schools and attended Sir George Williams University (now Concordia) on a hockey scholarship. He pushed himself physically and kept in shape running, biking, cross country skiing and golfing (sports he loved as much as hockey). He also loved fishing, especially his trips to Eva Lake with his buddy Len. John married the love of his life, Kathleen (Byrne) on September 3, 1976, and they made their life in Thunder Bay where together they raised 2 wonderful children, Anthea and Jordy. He was a dedicated family man, an accomplished chef, a caring hockey coach and a friend you could always count on. He loved children, and his life was made more complete with the arrival of his first grandchild, Emma ( Mallek) who was “Grandpa’s Girl”. Next came along his “Number One” and first grandson, Chase( Bilodeau), and most recently his grandson Jaxon John (Mallek). He was not given nearly enough time to spoil them in the way he would have wanted. John is survived by his wife of 35 years, Kathleen, his daughter Anthea ( Marc) Bilodeau, son Jordy( Tanya) Mallek, mother Freda Mallek, sisters Debbie ( Phil) Crane, and Kathy Mallek (Brian). He is also survived by beloved grandchildren Emma and Jaxon John Mallek, and Chase Bilodeau. He was a much loved uncle, great uncle, nephew, cousin and brother-in law to his extended family. John is predeceased by his father John and grandparents Kalena & Fred Mallek and Viola and Victor Newman, Father-in-law Patrick Byrne and brother- in- law Shawn Byrne. Service to be held on Wednesday July 25th at 5:00. In lieu of flowers , donations in John’s memory can be made to P.R.O. Kids, Thunder Bay.Thank you for the life you’ve given us.