Ronald Malara

Ronald (Ron) Joseph Malara

May 4, 1941 – August 9, 2024

Ronald (Ron) Joseph Malara, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on August 9, 2024. Born on May 4, 1941, in Denver, Colorado, Ron was the eldest son of Matthew and Rose Malara, and the adored older brother to Gary.

From a young age, Ron was known for his vibrant spirit and talents. He delighted in playing the accordion, earning numerous awards for his music, and also enjoyed various sports. During his high school years, Ron's interests included cars, playing cards, and his high school sweetheart, Linda DelliQuadri. The bond between Ron and Linda, which began in grade school, blossomed into a deep and lasting love. They married two years after graduating high school on August 18, 1962.

Ron worked initially for Right Light and later for Light Craft in Denver. In 1971, he moved his family to Fort Collins, where he and Gary purchased a local business, Paul’s Lighting, which they rebranded as Malara Brother’s Lighting. They expanded their enterprise with a new showroom in Greeley in 1976. After selling the business in 1986, Ron transitioned to a role as a sales representative for Shamrock Foods.

Ron’s life was filled with diverse passions. He coached little league baseball, played in a softball league, and enjoyed  gardening, fishing, hunting, and painting. His enthusiasm for collecting gems, jewelry, coins, and friendships reflected his engaging and charismatic personality. Known for his ability to light up a room with his detailed storytelling and genuine warmth, Ron could connect with anyone, anywhere, at any time, leaving a lasting impression on all who met him.

Ron’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, papa, brother uncle, and friend. His love for his family was boundless, and he was a protector, mentor, confidant and patriarch of his family.  His legacy is one of compassion, joy, and unwavering support, and he will be remembered with deep love and pride by all who knew him.

Ron is proceeded in death by his loving brother and best friend, Gary Malara.

Ron is survived by his wife of 62 years, Linda; his children Tony (Renea), Steve (Connie), and Deanna; his seven grandchildren Alexa (Andrew), Vittoria, Vincent (Paige), Dante (Kenna), Dion, Dominic, and Miya; and his great-grandchild, Emrynn. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Janet along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and an endless amount of friends. 

A celebration of Ron's remarkable life will be held on Monday, Aug. 26th at St. Joseph’s Church, 300 W. Mountain Ave. in Fort Collins, Colorado. The rosary will commence at 1:30pm, followed by the funeral service at 2:00pm. You are invited to join us for a reception at Meredith Hall, located in the basement of the church immediately after the service.

Flowers are appreciated, and the family kindly requests any contributions can also be made to support Big Bones Canine Rescue, in his honor. 

Ron’s memory will remain in our hearts forever. His life and legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.