Wayne Z. Maliska

Wayne Z. Maliska, 85, of Fort Lauderdale, FL., passed away on Monday, March 17, 2025. He was born in Winchendon, MA, on March 26, 1939, the son of the late Zigmund and Irene G. (Houle) Maliksa.

 He grew up in Winchendon and graduated in 1957 from Murdock High School, where he was president of his high school class for four years. He also earned two letters in baseball, three letters in football, and during his senior year was captain of the football team. He graduated from Fitchburg State College, Fitchburg, MA, in 1963 and from American University in Washington, DC, in 1970. 

While attending Fitchburg State College, he worked his way through college as a part-time police officer with the Winchendon Police Department. After graduating from Fitchburg State, he continued in law enforcement as a Narcotics Agent with the former Federal Bureau of Narcotics and then with the United States Park Police in Washington, DC. During his career he held many positions and was sent on numerous special assignments to various National Parks and Monuments all over the country. He retired in 1986 with the rank of Captain. 

In addition to his law enforcement career, Wayne and his wife, Sharon were involved in real estate investment in Virginia, Maryland and Winchendon, MA. 

He leaves his wife of 39 years, Sharon (Golke) Maliska; a brother, Thomas P. Maliska of Steilacoom, WA; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, a great-great niece and a great-great nephew. A brother, Robert P. Maliksa, died in 2004. 

 Calling Hours will be held at Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central St., Winchendon, MA on Saturday, April 12, 2025 from 9:30-10:30AM. 

A Funeral Mass will be held at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 52 Spruce St., Winchendon, MA at 11:00AM, with a burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery, Winchendon, MA. 

Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central St., Winchendon, MA is assisting with Wayne's arrangements.