Donald J. Malatok 1941-2025

He was born April 20, 1941, in Youngstown, a son of the late Dominic and Veronica Potock Malatok. He graduated from Ursuline High School in 1959 and attended Youngstown State University.

He honorably served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1966, including two years of active duty and four years in the Reserve. His military service took him overseas, where he was stationed in Germany.

He worked for Borghetti-Berazzi Tile and Terrazzo after he returned from the Army, before he began working for Commercial Shearing as a skilled lathe operator and tool room technician for 37 years until his retirement in November 1999. A proud veteran, he was an active member of VFW Post 3538 and carried a strong sense of pride in his service and his community.

He was a devoted husband and a man of many skills, inheriting his knack for fixing things from his father. He gave back to his community by coaching youth softball and the Little Wildcats, always encouraging young athletes with patience and enthusiasm. Every year, he looked forward to the Community Cup, where he enjoyed the camaraderie and friendly competition

He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, enjoying fishing, hunting and camping trips. Golfing in local leagues brought him joy, as did visiting his sister in Tucson whenever he could. Above all, family meant everything to him. More than anything, he cherished time with his grandchildren, never missing their events and creating lasting memories with simple joys like taking them out for breakfast..

He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his beloved wife of 59 years, the former Paulette Malutic; his children, Dana (Scott) Hughes, Brian (Jennifer) Malatok and Tracy (Matthew) Leicht; his grandchildren, William J. Heid, Jr., Eric Hughes, Malcolm Leicht, Rachel Malatok and Miles Leicht; his siblings, James (Peggy) Malatok, Sandy McKinney, Cindy Porter and Kenneth (Tammy) Malatok; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Doug McKinney and Bill Porter; and his beloved canine companion, Pepper.

Friends will be received 10 to 10:45 a.m. Friday, June 6, 2025, at Christ Our Savior Parish-St. Nicholas Catholic Church in Struthers, followed immediately by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m.

He will be laid to rest in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Coitsville, where military honors will be rendered in recognition of his service to our country.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers.

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send the family condolences and share your memories.

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