Michael J. Malloy

Michael J. Malloy, 70, of Topeka, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.  Mike was born on November 6, 1955, in Topeka, Kansas, to Arthur "Art" J. Malloy and Germaine “Gerry” L. (Boggs) Malloy.  A lifelong resident of Topeka, Mike built a life centered around family, friendship, laughter, and a deep love for his community.

Mike passed away after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Even in the face of illness, he continued to show the strength, humor, and love for life that everyone who knew him cherished.

He graduated from Seaman High School in 1973 and later attended Emporia State. Over the years Mike worked in management for several different companies and in newspaper circulation and later at a local golf course-places where he formed countless friendships and became a familiar and welcoming presence to many in the community.

But the title he truly loved was “Coach.” Mike spent many years coaching youth sports and varsity boys basketball at Cair Paravel Latin School. He loved the game, but even more than that, he loved mentoring young people, challenging them to be their best, and celebrating their victories on and off the court. To many of his players, he was far more than a coach- he was a lifelong encourager and friend.

On November 18, 1978, Mike married the love of his life, Diane Dick, in Topeka. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a family that meant everything to him.

Mike was the kind of person who could light up a room. Known for his humor, storytelling, and ability to bring people together, he rarely met a stranger. Time spent with Mike meant laughter, good conversation, and often a story that would be told again and again. But beyond the laughter, Mike had a quiet way of showing up for people who needed encouragement, often helping others find their footing when life had knocked them down.

He is survived by his loving wife, Diane Malloy; his mother, Gerry Malloy of Topeka; his children, Heather Martens (Jeff), Gian Njagi-Malloy (John), Michael J. Malloy II (Lauren), and Amanda Cox (Paul).

His favorite title in life was “Poppy.” He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Tyler, Haleigh, Rosa, and Chance; Kamila and Isaac; Mya and Ariawna; and Wyatt, Kinley, and Olivia. His family was the joy of his life, and he took great pride in each of them.

He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends who will continue to cherish the memories and laughter they shared with him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Arthur J. Malloy, and his sister, Suzanne Malloy Martin.

A memorial service will be held at Northland Christian Church, 3102 N. Topeka Blvd., on Saturday, March 14 at 11:00 a.m. Immediately following the service, a “Malloy-style” Celebration of Life, exactly as Mike requested, will be held at The Woodshed, 1901 N Kansas Ave. Greet the family and celebrate Mike the way he lived—surrounded by friends, good food, music, laughter, and plenty of stories. Because anyone who knew Mike knows there will be stories! A private family inurnment will be held on a later date.

Guests are encouraged to wear bright blue or Irish green in honor of Mike.

Though his family grieves the loss deeply, they find peace in their faith and the promise that Mike is now free from pain and fully at home in the presence of the Lord.

And while he will be greatly missed, his love, laughter, and legacy will continue to live on through his family.

Memorial contributions can be made to: Cair Paravel Latin School Boys Varsity Basketball Program, 635 SW Clay, Topeka 66606 or to GraceFound Home Inc. – In honor of the encouragement and compassion Mike showed to others, his family invites those who wish to make a memorial gift to consider supporting this ministry, which is dedicated to offering hope and stability to those working to rebuild their lives, Gracefoundhouse@gmail.com or to a charity of your choice www.ppdfuneral.com