David Malin
November 18, 1955 - July 15, 2019
Obituary
David Jerome Malin “Big Dave” passed away at his home in Roberts on July 15, 2019. He was born November 18, 1954 to Jerome and Rose Mary (Mezera) Malin in Onalaska, WI. Dave graduated from Onalaska High School where he was a star athlete all four years. He moved to Red Lodge, MT and had made his home there for the past 42 years. Dave married Danielle Karas in September 26, 1984 and they later divorced. They had two children, their son Karas (passed in 1985) and their daughter Mackenzie. Dave was a chef for many years at Piney Dell and Natalies Café. He then found a love for carpentry. He had his own business for many years and built many beautiful homes all around the Red Lodge area. Dave loved anything involving a good time. Between skiing, softball, hunting, traveling, horseshoes and anything involving the outdoors, he always found new friends. His smile was infectious to all. Whether dancing all night or relaxing under his pergola, he always had a smile on his face. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and the entire community. David is survived by his daughter, Mackenzie (Steve) Alexander and their children, Haley and William. He is further survived by his father and stepmother, Jerome and Alice Malin, Onalaska, WI, siblings, Catherine (Robert Maxwell), Albuquerque, NM, Patricia Malin (Joe Smith), Minneapolis MN, Julie Malin, Kevin (Sue) Malin, Onalaska, WI and Chris Malin, Plantation, FL, stepbrother, Robert (Kathy) Heim of Colfax, WI and stepsister, Jean Happel, (Dean Ranzenberger) of Spring Grove, MN. Other survivors include his aunts, Emaline Garavalia and Dorothy Luckason as well as many other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Rose Mary, infant son, Karas, and grandparents, Vincent and Catherine Mezera and Joseph and Mae Malin. A Celebration of Life (Dave style) will be Sunday, July 28 at his home, 54 Cherry Springs Road, Roberts, Montana, 4:00pm. Food, beer, music, horseshoes and a good time will be provided just as he always liked to do. Arrangements are in the care of Dahl Funeral Chapel.
Events
There are no events for David yet.
Photos
No photos of David have been shared yet.
Memories
SR
sid rogerson
Other •
Dave was my best friend in Red Lodge. We shared many good times at the cave, bowling, working, cooking, traveling, and sailing. He was a giant at bringing people together. He felt that once you were friends, even if you parted ways, you should still love and respect each other. We've parted now, but I'll always love and respect DAVE. He's left a huge void in my life. Sid Rogerson
LB
Lynette Burgan
Other •
I worked with Dave at the old Ramada Inn in Billings 40 odd years ago and then was lucky enough to work with him again at Red Lodge Mountain in the late 80's. I would see him from time to time in Roberts at the Y-Stop and he would always give me a hug and say hello. He was always so nice. Just a "gentle giant" with a kind heart! And I remember when he bought our old neighbor John Teini's old building and moved it to it's present home. What an endeavor by a man who wanted to preserve a piece of the past! Rest in Peace my friend, you have earned it. Lynette Goodman-Burgan
DH
Debra Holthaus-Robinson
Other •
I graduated with Dave but actually we went to school together for 12 years. He was always a fun and very smiley guy. I got to see him 2 years ago when he came home for the class reunion and of course got a big hug and kiss. We’ll all miss him dearly as I know you will. I’ m so sorry for all his family and friends. He was one of the good ones! Deb Holthaus-Robinson
EC
Eric Coobs
Other •
Dave was always a good guy - I always liked him. May he dwell in Valhalla!!
BL
Brian Luoma
Other •
It was always fun to have a beer,swap stories, and have a big laugh with "Big Dave". Thought of him just a couple of weeks ago, as we are moving our stuff back to MT, and drove by Cherry Springs Rd.. Said to myself, that I'll have to look him up when we get back. Guess I'll just have to hoist a glass in his honor. He will be missed!
CL
Charlotte Lynn
Other •
Dave and my late husband, Barry Lynn, were roommates in the 70's. Dave was the lounge manager at the Ramada Inn and I was a bartender there. It was the 70's, so there was a whole lot of partying going on and Dave introduced me to Barry. We stayed friends throughout the years and made a point of staying in touch. I will miss Dave. He was one of the kindest and sincere guys I will ever know.