Bernard Ernest Malanych quietly passed away in his sleep on the morning of January 1, 2026. He had been doing well health-wise after celebrating his 80th birthday in May 2025.
He leaves behind his son Jason Malanych (with partner M. Mars); his sister Shirley Malanych from Toronto; nieces Leslyann Komljenovic and Jessalyn Leakey from Campbell River; and his longtime companion Joanne Mc Macken of Thunder Bay-who stood by him through life’s ups and downs, especially as Bernard became her full-time caregiver during her battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Bernard was predeceased by his mother Teeny Malanych; his ex-wife Anne Vibert, who is also Jason’s mother; and his brother Satch Malanych.
Born in Fort William, Ontario, Bernie called Thunder Bay home for most of his life, though he also spent some important years in Vancouver and Toronto when he was younger. He went to local schools including all three high schools before finishing at Westgate. Summers found him playing basketball at Dease Park, while winters were for hockey leagues. Ralph Dahlin was his childhood best friend; later on Brian Babichuk became a close buddy.
Bernard earned a diploma in Architectural Drafting from Cambrian College. At heart, he was an artist with lots of friends across different interests. Many knew him for sign painting and handyman work. He loved cooking and gardening too-and regularly met up with friends for supper clubs over the years. In middle age, running long distances helped keep him fit.
One thing Bernard really loved was stock car racing! He enjoyed being part of pit crews for various Thunder Bay teams and even got involved with teams down south in the States.
Later on, you’d often find him relaxing on the couch watching NASCAR on Sundays or out walking his dog Jiba alongside Joanne and her dog Cohen.
A Celebration of Life will take place in Thunder Bay sometime during Spring or Summer 2026 when it gets warmer outside.
If you’d like to honor Bernard’s memory with a donation, please consider The Northern Reach Rescue Network, The Alzheimer’s Society, the Canadian Association of the Deaf, or the Canadian Cultural Society of the Deaf.
You can leave your condolences online at www. nwfainc. com
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