About Gary Malone
A strong, honorable man who personified hard work and carried a generous heart that was always willing to help others. He specialized in the painstakingly detailed restoration of some of the most iconic wooden boats to glide across the Great Lakes. Gary had a focused attention to detail in everything he did, especially in woodworking.
Long-time resident and mainstay of Boyne City, Gary was an extraordinary historian, storyteller and a highly skilled craftsman with a career spanning over 70 years. Gary was a man who made overalls fashionable; loved by many friends, neighbors, customers and family members.
He had a warm presence and a wealth of knowledge that made conversations with him enjoyable. Besides woodworking, his other hobbies included boating, hunting, swimming and pumping iron.
About Early Life
Gary started in the boat business shortly after turning the age of 18. Spending the following years learning and experiencing life on and around boats he fell in love with it and knew it was the career path destined for him.
He worked in various positions starting on the Helene for Mr. and Mrs. Rinaldi. From there he skippered the Kingfisher boat for AJ Fischer from the Great Lakes down to West Palm Beach. From there he worked on various boats for Jim Causley at Jefferson Beach Marina.
Later on in his career he transitioned from a boat skipper and captain to a specialized wooden boat restorer. This was the start of GC Malone Boatworks. Over his career he had the pleasure of restoring some of the finest wooden boats. Some of his customers include DJ Kennedy of GPYC, Jon Winn, Rick Laenen (Black Beauty) and Don McIntyre (Roving Kind). His work was recognized throughout the antique wooden boat community.
About Family
Gary's family all shared great memories growing up and spending summers up north on Lake Charlevoix. Spending time with each other swimming down by the lake, eating Johnecheck Sweet Corn and laying looking at the stars on summer nights. Everyone in the family was always excited to go visit him up north.
About Friends
Gary and his close friends were lifelong hunting buddies and enjoyed coming together and spending time hunting each year across Northern Michigan.They spent many happy hours together in the woods, enjoying each other's company and the natural beauty of the surroundings. These trips were an important tradition for Gary and his friends, and they will always be remembered as a special part of their relationship.He also had many friends who shared a similar interest in boating. Specifically in the antique wooden boat community. This community was made up of individuals who were passionate about preserving and restoring vintage wooden boats. Gary and his friends enjoyed spending time together at boat shows, marinas, and other events related to antique wooden boats. They were avid collectors and enthusiasts who appreciated the craftsmanship and beauty of these classic vessels.
We'd like to thank all of his close friends and neighbours of the Villa for supporting his family during this time.
About Legacy
Gary Malone will forever be remembered for his kindness and civility towards every single person he met. His willingness to help others with an open heart while asking nothing in return was one of his valued traits and made him a beloved figure in his community. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him and his presence in the Villa will be missed. Rest peacefully basking in the sun, Gary.
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