Stephen F. Malenda

Stephen F. Malenda, known to all as Stephen, passed away on June 26, 2026, at home in Clifton, New Jersey, at the age of 87, with his wife by his side.

Born on April 17, 1939, in Passaic, New Jersey, Stephen lived a life marked by quiet strength, devotion to family, and a steady kindness that touched everyone who knew him. He was a loving, gentle, and intelligent man whose presence brought comfort and warmth to those around him. Stephen was raised in Wallington, NJ and moved to Clifton, NJ when he married Gayle Wolf. Stephen was a United States Air Force Veteran, serving as a medic.

Stephen was the beloved husband of Gayle (nee Wolf) Malenda for 57 years, a marriage built on love, loyalty, and enduring companionship. Together, they shared a lifetime of memories and a bond that stood as a testament to commitment and devotion. He was the cherished son of the late Stephen F. Malenda and Julia (nee Hirkala) Malenda, and he was a loving brother to Susan Molnar.

He pursued his education with dedication and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University and a Master’s degree from Seton Hall University. Stephen valued learning and carried the benefits of his education into every aspect of his life, approaching each endeavor with thoughtfulness and intelligence.

Stephen spent his working years in pharmaceutical packaging, retiring from Ivers-Lee Packaging in Verona, New Jersey. He was respected for his reliability, his strong work ethic, and his professional integrity. Those who worked with him knew him as a steady and capable presence, someone who approached his responsibilities with care and precision.

Stephen also enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, and he was an avid golfer. The game gave him enjoyment, fellowship, and time outdoors, and it was one of the many interests that brought him happiness over the years. Whether on the course or in the company of family and friends, he appreciated the moments that made life meaningful.

All services are private. Arrangements are by Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton, NJ 07013. Visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the online obituary.

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