Retired Professor of Sociology Michael Malec, who taught at Boston College for five decades, died on March 31 in Newton, Massachusetts. He was 85.
Malec’s career at Boston College began in 1969 after earning his doctorate from Purdue University and a bachelor of science degree from Loyola University. He retired following the 2017-2018 academic year. During his tenure, he taught courses such as Statistics, Data Analysis, and Sociology of Sport. He also served as chair of the Sociology Department and advised many undergraduate and graduate students.
Malec led numerous service trips to Nicaragua and received the 2016 Boston College Community Service Award for his contributions to the community. In addition to his academic work, he enjoyed traveling with family and was known for being a devoted Chicago Cubs fan as well as a regular participant in pickup basketball games at the Flynn Recreation Complex.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 7 at Sacred Heart Church in Newton with interment to follow at Newton Cemetery. Visiting hours are scheduled for Monday, April 6 from 4-7 p.m. at Eton & Mackay Funeral Home in Newton.
“He will always be loved, remembered, and cherished,” said his son Thomas Malec, director for computing support in Information Technology Services at Boston College.
Malec is survived by his wife Myrna (King) Malec; sons Timothy (with wife Sandy) of Newton and Thomas (with wife Barbara) of Milton; grandchildren Matthew, Maria, Will, and James; and siblings Jim Malec, Judy Kelch, and John Malec.
