Thomas Maloney

MALONEY, THOMAS W. JR.Age 92, beloved father and husband, died at his home on September 4, 2012. He proudly served in the U.S. Marines during WWII as a Radio Operator from August 4, 1941 to April 1945 in many battles at Guam and in the Pacific Islands. While in the Marines, he earned many awards and was honored to receive a Commendation medal from Gen. T. E. Watson, USMC for service in combat. From a very early age, he found the joy of music, excelling as a musician throughout his life. He played the accordion professionally from the young age of 13, working at traveling Medicine Shows and Minstrel shows throughout Illinois and the mid-west. After his service in the Marines, he attended Wayne State University, earning a bachelor's degree and then a master's degree in secondary education. He taught math and science for many years. In 1969, Thomas pursued his dream by opening a music studio in Albuquerque where he taught music lessons, managed the 66 Trailer Lodge, and played his accordion professionally with several bands, including the "Tom Maloney Band" for the Palo Duro Senior Center for over ten years. He also earned his Extra Class Amateur Radio license, call sign WA5MBD. His love for music, trains, and traveling was only exceeded by his love for his wife, Leona. Thomas was preceded in death by his son, Thomas W. Maloney, III. He is survived by his wife, Leona, daughters: Judith Miller (Jay) of Albuquerque, and Debra Reynolds (Mark), grandchildren: Jason Miller, Jeremy Miller, Paul Reynolds, Jenna Reynolds, and William Maloney: and one great-grandchild, Levi Miller. The family wishes to thank the staff at Presbyterian Hospice, especially Nurse Dawn and Gene Garcia; and, his wonderful caregiver, Olivia. We will all miss his sense of humor and love of life. A Graveside service will be Friday, September 7, 2012 at 9:30 a.m. at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery, 924 Menaul Blvd NE. Please visit our online guestbook for Thomas at Lomas Blvd NE505-275-3500