Richard S. Malko

Richard S. Malko, 78, of Bluffton, South Carolina, passed away on June 3, 2026 in Charleston, SC, after a long illness. Born on June 7, 1947 in Somerville, NJ, Rich graduated from Bridgewater High School and attended Rutgers University and Trenton State College. He spent most of his career with Mazda Motors of America as Regional Service Manager of the northeast region.

Rich never let grass grow beneath his feet. He was active in the community and a Life Member of the Neshanic Volunteer Fire Company, in New Jersey. He continued as a volunteer fireman upon his retirement to South Londonderry, Vermont, with Champion Fire Company. He was an avid skier and cyclist and passed his love of outdoor adventure to his sons, and eventually his grandchildren, through countless vacations to the mountains of Vermont and the northeast. Rich enjoyed woodworking and became very involved in that hobby both in Vermont and South Carolina making furniture and cabinetry for family and friends. He also enjoyed auto racing and was a member of the New England Hillclimb Association in Vermont. Rich also became involved in his community, Sun City Hilton Head, by volunteering with the Safety and Service group. He enjoyed assisting with various activities and meeting people along the way.

Rich is survived by his wife of 56 years, Margie McAllister Malko, his sons, Paul Malko ( Jessica Uhler-Malko) from Grafton, Vermont and Jeffrey Malko (Lynn Malko) from Naperville, Illinois and granddaughters, Rachel, Lauren and Ashley whom he adored and was very proud. His sister Patricia Havlicek (John Havlicek) lives in Hardeeville, SC. He is predeceased by his parents, Stephen and Sophie Sonia Malko.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully accepted by the Neshanic Volunteer Fire Company in New Jersey or Bluffton Self Help in Bluffton, South Carolina. Rich will be sorely missed by all his friends and family. A Celebration of Life will be held in the future.