Donald “Don” Malec, 78, of Valley City, ND, passed away at Mercy Hospital in Valley City on March 21, 2025.
A celebration of Don’s life will be held at Memory Gardens Cemetery on April 26, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., with a time for fellowship following the service at the Valley City Eagles Club. If the weather does not cooperate, alternative arrangements for the service will be made.
Donald James Malec was born on October 10, 1946, to Stanley and Catherine (Jensen) Malec. He grew up in rural Barnes County, ND, where he attended and graduated from Noltimeier School. Don went on to college in Wahpeton, ND. He spent several years working at Miller Motors in Valley City before his Crohn’s Disease placed him on medical disability. Always a social person, he “helped out” at Bayshore City Side in Valley City for many years.
On March 14, 1970, he married Pat Kinslow, and they made their home in Valley City.
Don had many hobbies, including hunting, fishing, and spending time with friends and family. He had a deep love for cowboy life and was an active member of the Sheyenne Valley Riding Club, where he showed and rode horses. Later in life, he developed a passion for car racing, particularly drag racing.
A dedicated member of Eagles Aerie 2192 in Valley City, Don served as a trustee and moved through the chairs of the board multiple times. He was also an integral part of the scholarship committee, and he and Pat were honored as Mr. and Mrs. Eagle. Additionally, he served on the ND Winter Show Rodeo Queen Pageant Committee and was a member of Epworth United Methodist Church in Valley City.
Don is survived by his daughter, Dawn (Brent) Thomsen; grandchildren, Ariyana (Riley) McAdoo-Roesler, Kaynen (Sadie) Malec, Alyssa Thomsen, and Chesney Thomsen; great-grandson, Hudson McAdoo-Roesler; brothers, Ron (Janay) Malec, Rick (Sally) Malec, and Del (Rose Mary) Malec; as well as several in-laws, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Pat; and his son, Darin.
Lerud Mathias Funeral Home is assisting Don’s family with arrangements. An online guestbook and tribute page are available at www.lerudmathias.com.