Gerald F. Malmen

Gerald Forrest Malmen, 92, formerly of Orion, passed away, June 14, 2024, at Friendship Manor, Silver Cross Health and Rehabilitation, Rock Island.

A memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Orion. The visitation will be one hour prior to service time. Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and inurnment will follow at Western Township Cemetery, with military honors. Memorials may be made to Friendship Manor, Rock Island or to St. Paul Lutheran Church. Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, Ltd., Orion, is assisting the family. 

Jerry was born on May 22, 1932 in Moline, the son of Forrest and Virginia (Zimmerman) Malmen. He married Evelyn I. Lieving on June 7, 1952, at St. Paul Lutheran Church. She preceded him in death on February 27, 2015. He was a U.S. Veteran, having served in the Army from August of 1952 to July of 1954. He was a self-employed farmer for 26 years before moving to Albuquerque New Mexico for 20 years. While in New Mexico, he worked for Coors Brewery, Stewart Anderson as a farmhand, and Friend Tire. He moved back to Illinois and worked for Hot Shots delivering nuclear medicine to hospitals in Peoria and surrounding areas, retiring in 2009. He enjoyed playing cards, bowling, and puzzles.

Survivors include his children, Debra (John) Solomonson, Vicki (Chris) Dufour, Carol (Doug) Ragan, Tom (Teri) Malmen, Kimberly (Dan) Snow; sister Joyce Alba: 17 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren, and 1 great great granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his wife; daughter, Tamra Malmen; great great grandson and brother-in-law, Sam Alba.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Heartland Hospice for the care and support given to Jerry and his family.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.