Erich Alan Malinak

Dear Malinak Clan--
We cherish the memories that have intertwined our families for over sixty years.
You have our love and prayers.
Joyce and Jack

Jeff,

I'm rarely at a loss for words to describe what to say for your incredible loss of your Big Brother who is surly a part of who you are today. Anne and I both pray for you and your family - we pray that you all work thru this painful period keeping all the fond memories of such a special person and grow from his example. It's not for us to try to figure out Gods plan but somehow I believe he is now in a place we all simply can't image in our little human minds; but a place that is beautiful all the same. After your brothers full processing is completed at the Pearly Gates with St Pete, I believe he'll head directly to "The Colosseum Of The Gods" and be on the courts once again but this time playing with some of the greatest basketball legends of all time. I picture him teamed up with Manute Bol, Wilt Chamberlain and Peter Maravich and once again a terror on the courts, but this time in a heavenly, divine and beautiful place.

Please know you have our heartfelt sorrow during this time of grief and look to the day after you morn this loss - to celebrate his life with you when you return to the Washington area. Not knowing your brother, we eagerly look forward to hearing you tell us more about him over a margarita or three.

Morn now, but be strong knowing he is with God now and it you will soon celebrate his life.

Your friends, Anne and David Kane (Potomac, MD) ~ Anne & David Kane, Potomac, Maryland

Five Minutes

If I only had five minutes the day you passed away,
I would have had time to tell you all the things I needed to say.

I never got to tell you how much you mean to me,
Or that you were the best Brother, better than any man could be.

The last time that I talked to you
I wish I would have known.
I would have said I love you,
and kept you on the phone.

If I only had five minutes,
the morning you passed away,
I'd come to you and give you one last hug so tight and see your great big smile.
I'd tell you how much I think of you,
And that I’ve thought this way all the awhile.
I'd kiss your cheek and take your hand and tell you it's okay to go
And tell you that I'll miss you,
more than you'll ever know.

But you were gone so quickly,
One last journey you'd take.
Before you even knew it,
you were standing at heavens gate.
Now God’s Basketball team was in need - so he has now called upon you,
It's time to get your wings.
To leave this life behind you,
And enjoy all of heavens beautiful things.
So wait for me in heaven Brother,
But don't call on me so soon.
I still feel there's much for me to do,
And still wish to see many moons.

Adapted by David Kane, Potomac, MD. for Jeff Manlinak’s

Dear Dr. Malinak,

Bill and I are sorry to learn of the death of your son, Alan. May God bless and comfort you and your family as you mourn his passing.

Love,

Janna

My heart hurts for the family during this difficult time. I remember Billie Ann from Temple, TX. THS class of 1955. My prayers are with you.

I was very shocked to hear the news of Alan's passing. I pray for God to give the Malinak family and close friends the strength to deal with the loss of this wonderful human being.

I have great memories of being a friend and classmate of Alan's at St Thomas HS. Although we drifted apart for many years, it was Alan who reached out to me recently which was a great and pleasant surprise.

I remember Alan as having a rare combination of high intelligence and great athletic ability. He had a strong competitive nature, yet always treated everyone with a high degree of respect.

God bless you all. Rest in peace our dear friend.


E. J. Bermudez
STHS Class of '83

Dear Jeff, Ria and the Malinak Family,

Our hearts are so sad about the loss of your brother Alan. We wish we could be there in Texas with you but please know our thoughts and prayers are with you in spirit. Although we never met Alan, we know Alan was an amazing person like all the Malinaks.

Love,

Michelle and Charles Camp

I received the tragic and stunning news of Alan's recent passing. None of us are really capable of comprehending such a loss. I do, however, have profound belief and accept that Alan is now in a better place. For a time though, due to his absence, we are not in a better place.

Alan stood out as one of the boys I coached that was special in the human qualities that he possessed. His attitude, carriage, demeanor, and selflessness were an example to all of us. I have every confidence that he retained these qualities throughout his life.

Dr. Malinak, Angela, Abigail, and Avery: I wish I could be there personally to express my grief and, from my perspective, relate to all of you how wonderful a person I knew Alan to be.

To all the players on that very special St. Thomas JV team: We will always have that time together and that great time with Alan.

God Bless You All
Coach Wright

My condolences go out to the Malinak family.

I’ll always remember the young years when “the gang” would visit the family farm, Alan’s smile, his kindness and his basketball skills. Although it’s been many years since I’ve heard from Alan and “the gang”, one thing for certain, you’ll never be able to take away that spot in my Heart for Alan! Prayers for his wife and daughters.

Greg Cortez
STHS 83
St.Cecilia 79

Alan was my STHS classmate in 1983 and I was very sad to hear this.

I remember him as a smart, friendly kid from the few classes we had together.

Thoughts and prayers are with his family - especially his girls. As the father of two girls myself, I know that they hope they will always cherish memories of a great dad.

Best,

John Lewis
STHS 83