Charles Malarkey

Charles Malarkey November 2, 1951 - March 25, 2022 Charles "Chaz" Michael Malarkey passed away on March 25, 2022 at the age of 70 while hiking and taking in a beautiful evening on Yaquina Head in Newport, Oregon. His sudden passing has been difficult for those left behind, but to know that he was in a place so close to his heart brings immense peace and comfort. Born in Portland, Oregon to Benedict and Marialice (Costello) Malarkey, Chaz attended St Thomas Moore School and graduated from Lincoln High School. He often told stories about sledding near Council Crest, family trips to the coast and the good friends and cousins he grew up with. He picked up a guitar at the age of 14, and so began a love that lasted all his life. After attending the University of Oregon, he was drawn to the wild, rugged beauty of the Oregon Coast. He met the love of his life, Kathy, along with a group of lifelong close friends, and Newport became home for the next 47 years. Together they raised two daughters, Brie and Jenna, in a home across from Yaquina Head in Agate Beach. They would take their girls on camping and backpacking trips, cross country skiing adventures and countless hikes in remote Lincoln County. He fostered a love of the outdoors in both his girls and would continue to offer advice on the best hiking trails and tucked away places. A simple life, connected to nature and nestled between the ocean and the coast mountains, was the best life. Chaz briefly worked in the fishing industry before embarking on a 37-year career with Lincoln County. He first worked in the Road Department and eventually became a land surveyor in the County Surveyor's Office. It was a dream job that allowed him to spend many days deep in the forests and wild places around the county. Outside of work, he could be found hunting mushrooms, razor clamming, gardening, fishing and, of course, playing his guitar. Music connected Chaz to many in the local community. He and his bandmates played at cafes, celebrations, festivals, and for each other at practice. His love of music was contagious and brought people together in the best way. Chaz is survived by his best friend and wife, Kathleen "Kathy" Sipman Malarkey; his sisters Mary Gaynor Malarkey Flannagan and Jane Malarkey-Harmon; his daughters Brie Malarkey and Jenna Malarkey Hill; and his grandchildren Morgan, Alex, Lukin and Laird. Donations in memory of Chaz can be made to the Newport Chapter of Surfrider Foundation: newport.surfrider.org

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Charles Malarkey

November 2, 1951 - March 25, 2022