Wesley George Malecki, 90, of Tarpon Springs, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of November 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Wes, as he was affectionately known, was born on September 3, 1935, in Ostrow, Poland. As a young boy, he fled WW2 occupied Poland with his mother and younger sister while his father was away fighting in the war. After the war, his father eventually joined the family in Chicago, where Wes spent his formative years.

He attended Catholic school and graduated from high school in Chicago. Wes proudly served in the U.S. Army and later worked in the Merchant Marines before being mentored by his much-loved stepfather, Ted, in mechanical drafting. That mentorship led to a long career as a mechanical engineering draftsman, working on the United Airlines terminal at Chicago O’Hare Airport. After a job-related illness led to early retirement, Wes kept busy as a handyman and building superintendent in the city he loved.

In later years, Wes moved to Tarpon Springs, Florida, to be closer to his only son, Gregory. He embraced the Florida lifestyle and found peace in his coastal surroundings. He enjoyed kayaking, biking around town, and sitting on his waterfront balcony. He especially loved visiting the Sponge Docks, where he was a regular fixture—often socializing and soaking in the atmosphere. He was also a familiar face at the old Tarpon Diner in Tarpon Springs, where he enjoyed breakfast, coffee, and conversation with friends. Wes was also known for staying active at Planet Fitness in Holiday and quietly attended Sunday Mass at St. Ignatius Catholic Church.

Above all else though, Wes loved his family. His son Gregory, daughter-in-law Denise, and grandson Austin were the pride and joy of his life. He treasured their Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, and every moment together. One of his favorite sayings was, “Let’s order a pizza and watch 60 Minutes,” a phrase that now carries a special warmth for those who loved him most.

Wes had a lifelong love of cars, particularly his beloved Chevy Astro Van and Toyota pickup truck, both of which he cared for with meticulous devotion. He also had a sweet tooth and a deep appreciation for his daughter-in-law’s Greek cookies, which he always hinted for.

Wes’ legacy lives on as a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and uncle. He is survived by his devoted son Gregory Malecki, his caring daughter-in-law Denise Malecki, and his adored grandson Austin Malecki. He is also survived by his sister Isabella Milewski and her children: Yvonne, Mark (Margie), George, and Tom (Nora). He was preceded in death by his loving mother Sofia, cherished stepfather Ted, dedicated father Stanley, treasured brother-in-law Jurek, and many other relatives, as Wes was one of the oldest living members of the extended Malecki-Sztaba-Radomski family.

A Catholic funeral Mass will be held at Saint Robert Bellarmine Catholic Parish in Chicago, followed by a graveside service at St. Adalbert Cemetery in Niles, Illinois, where Wes will be laid to rest alongside his beloved mother Sofia on December 20, 2025.

The Malecki family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Dobies Funeral Home.