Dennis Maloney

ELKHART — Dennis Bernard Maloney, 93, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully of natural causes at the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart at 3 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017.

He was born, in Elkhart, Aug. 14, 1924, to the late Martin F. and Charlotte (Fisher) Maloney.

He later married Antonia “Ann” Vander Beek in Elkhart in 1968. She survives at home after 49 wonderful years together.

Also surviving are his children, Karen (Percy) Herbert of Redlands, California, Maureen (James) Collins of Granada Hills, California, Colleen (David) Replogle of Elkhart, Larry (Susie) McHugh of Rhode Island, Michael McHugh of Dowagiac, Michigan and Mark (Doretta) McHugh of Summerville, South Carolina; 14 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

Siblings Martin “Mike”, Gerald “Jerry”, Dorothy and Marjorie Maloney all preceded him in death.

Dennis was a 1942 graduate of Elkhart High School and then enlisted into the U.S. Army Air Corps as an 18-year-old airman recruit. However, because of his aptitude and technical skill, he was eventually promoted to first lieutenant where he served gallantly as a B-24 Liberator pilot in Italy.

He flew 17 missions with the 15th Army Air Force, 465th Bomber Group (H). Following his military service, he went on to attend Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo.

Career-wise, Dennis was the president and owner of Acrowire Accessories Inc. of Rolling Prairie and Master Machine Inc., of Elkhart, retiring in 1997.

He was a charter member and officer of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers and the Greater Elkhart Personnel Association, and was a member of the American Wire Association.

A staunch family man, Dennis remained, over the years, strongly dedicated to high ethical behavior and moral value.

He enjoyed golf, photography and boating on his beloved Simonton Lake where he has resided since 1948.

He also spent his last 17 winters at his home in Sierra Vista, Arizona.

In accordance with Dennis’ wishes, cremation is to take place with memorial graveside service with military honors will be at the Veterans’ Towers in Prairie Street Cemetery in Elkhart at noon Friday, Nov. 3.

Pastor Kerry Hab of the New Apostolic Church of South Bend will officiate and honors will be rendered by the U.S. Army Funeral Honor Guard and Elkhart’s DAV 19.

Billings Funeral Home has been assisting the family with the arrangements.

Memorial donations may be given to the Center for Hospice Care in Elkhart.

 Service Information