Antoni Malarz

Antoni Malarz died peacefully in his sleep on September 18, 2013. Born in Boncza, Poland on April 5, 1931, to Marcin and Czeslawa, Antoni grew up with his brother and sister on a farm in Uchanie, Poland. While he respectfully completed his chores each day, he wasn’t fond of a farmer’s life and longed for a different occupation. In 1943, at the age of 12, the Germans invaded Poland and his family was forced to move numerous times to cities throughout Germany. When the war was over, he started the pursuit of his dream; to obtain a college degree and become an engineer. While he started his schooling in Germany, he found his options were limited. Determined to succeed, Antoni secured immigration sponsors and in 1951 came to the United States. He quickly became active in the Polish Youth Section of the Polish National Alliance - Council 122, where he particularly enjoyed participating in Polish dance and theatre events. In 1955 during one of these cultural events, he met a lovely girl named Louise. They enjoyed each other’s company very much and married on August 23, 1958. Soon after, Antoni was drafted into the Army and moved to Fort Campbell, Kentucky with his new bride. He proudly served his new country as a construction draftsman until his honorable discharge in December 1959, at which time he returned to the Detroit area. Soon thereafter, daughters Teresa and Barbara were born and began their formative years. Seeking a better life, the growing family moved to Warren in 1967 and a few years later, third daughter Renee was born. As his family grew, Antoni was committed to providing a good life for them. As a result, he sacrificed the college degree part of his dream but remained determined to become an engineer. He worked in small tool and die shops learning from others and proving his capabilities. Eventually his brilliance was recognized and he was offered a job with General Motors. His dream had become reality, he was a professional engineer. In the years that followed, Antoni’s achievements were remarkable. In a profession where many toil their entire career for a single U.S. patent, Antoni laid claim to twenty, including one for the wrist assembly of the car painting robot still in use by car manufacturers around the world today. He also was one of four founders of Fanuc Robotics Corporation, which has grown into an international manufacturing company. In addition to working nearly 50 hours per week at General Motors, he and his wife also ran a small business. The Old Country Deli, located in Sterling Heights, was a source of additional family income for nearly ten years to primarily assist in financing college education for their daughters. He and Louise took great pride in the fact each daughter eventually earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree. In addition to his professional and family life, Antoni shared his time and talent with the community around him. He served the Polish National Alliance - Council 122 in many leadership roles, including President. He also served Our Lady of Czestochowa parish as a volunteer, member of parish council, chairman of the New Year’s Eve dance and treasurer for numerous festivals and bazaars. After a professional career spanning over 30 years, Antoni retired and turned his focus to other pursuits. He traveled with his wife Louise and daughters to many parts of the United States, Egypt, Hawaii, Europe and the Caribbean. He also delighted in spending many hours with his grandchildren; sharing his wisdom, instilling a strong work ethic and celebrating their accomplishments. Antoni is survived by his wife Louise, daughter Teresa and son-in-law Dave, daughter Barbara and son-in-law Rick, daughter Renee and son-in-law Mark, granddaughters Kate, Lauren, Julia, Rachel, grandsons Anthony (A.J.), Alex and siblings Maria, Richard and Halina. They all loved him dearly and will miss him greatly. Visitation Friday from 2:00 to 9:00 pm with a 6:00 pm Rosary at the Sterling Heights Chapel of the E.J. Mandziuk & son Funeral Directors, Inc. 3801 18 Mile Rd (N.W. Corner of 18 & Ryan) Mass of the Christian burial Saturday at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church. Mr Malarz will lie instate at church from 10:00 am until time of mass. Entombment at Resurrection cemetery In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Antoni may be made to the Karmanos Cancer Institute or for a Mass at Our Lady of Czestochowa.

Antoni Malarz

April 5, 1931 - September 19, 2013