Gerard A. Maloney

GODDARD - Maloney, Gerard A., US Army COL ret. A diverse and interesting life came to a close with the death of former Elkhartan Gerard “Jerry” Maloney, 76, on April 28, 2008 in Wichita, Kansas. A 1950 Elkhart High School graduate, Maloney had three distinct careers. He was a radio-TV announcer who eventuated to general manager of WTRC, Elkhart, IN; a decorated Army artillery officer; a political/press/public affairs officer for German-American matters. He was born, May 24th 1932 in Elkhart, IN to Martin F. and Charlotte M. Maloney. Maloney is survived by his wife, Linda (Goodpasture) and four children and their families: Alan of Raleigh, NC; Kevin of Venice Beach, CA; Marcia of Victorville, CA and Lorri of Sylmar, CA. Also surviving are brothers Dennis, a retired industrialist, and Martin “Mike” Maloney, who is the master gardener host of WTRCs “Green Thumbs Up,” both of Elkhart. Maloney was hired in 1949 as part-time announcer for radio station WTRC. That same year he enlisted in the National Guard. After high school graduation, he was hired full-time by WTRC where he was later named program director and eventually general manager in his eleven year tenure at the station. He served as weather man and on-air announcer for two years on WSJV-TV. He also wrote a weekly music column for the Elkhart Truth. In the Guard, Maloney won his paratrooper wings and progressed to Captain and commander of the local Indiana unit. In 1961 he volunteered for full-time active Army duty. He served as artillery battery commander during the Cuban missile crisis, and for a 13-month tour in Korea. As Major in 1967, he was operations officer for the 41st Artillery Group in Vietnam combat. His career included tours in Germany, Fort Sill, OK (as gunnery instructor), and Fort Bliss, TX (as Chief of Combined Arms Instruction). Col. (ret.) Maloney retired from the US Army in 1981 with decorations including the Bronze Star, four awards of the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, and the Vietnam service medal with four battle stars and the Army Expeditionary Medal among other awards. Maloney was press officer and community relations contact for the Army and nine German communities in the Nuremberg, Germany area. He served a total of 18 years in Germany, ten of which were after retirement from the Army. Jerry Maloneys autobiography “A Heck of a Ride” is available at the Elkhart Public Library. Jerrys life will be celebrated at a memorial gathering in Elkhart, IN. Arrangements are pending. Donations may be made in the name of Gerard A. Maloney to USO World Headquarters, Dept. WS, P.O. Box 96860, Washington, DC 20090. Downing Lahey Mortuary West. No Local services