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Philip Malinowski, 71, of Cape Coral, FL, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on March 3, 1954, in Detroit, Michigan, Phil was a proud graduate of Holy Redeemer High School in Southwest Detroit, Class of 1972. On May 6, 1977 – the best day of his life – he married his high school sweetheart and best friend, Jayne Broniman. Together, they shared a loving marriage that lasted over 48 years.
Phil served his city with pride as a Detroit Police Officer, stationed at the 4th Precinct. After retirement, he moved to Johannesburg MI, where he enjoyed life on Little Bass Lake, next door to his best friends the Pongracz family and with his faithful canine companions – Buddy and Lucky. His garage man cave there was legendary ä the envy of all who visited.
He later found his true paradise in Cape Coral, Florida, spending the last two decades of his life in his happiest place in his home overlooking the peaceful Rubicon Canal. His favorite perch was his lanai, affectionately referred to as his “command post.” With his loyal dog – Windy – at his side, Motown music playing in the background, and a crossword puzzle always within reach, he was in his element. Phil was also a gentle guardian to the birds that made their nests in his mango trees. Phil was a regular at the Cape Clubhouse ä his second home ä where everyone knew his name.
At his core, he was a kind and joyful soul who loved the simple and beautiful things in life. A man of deep faith, a fiercely loyal friend, a loving family man, and an unrelenting comedian, he could light up any room. Phil was a proud second father to his nephews Erik and Logan after their father died.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Jayne Broniman Malinowski; his brothers Steve (Pat), Brian (Cheryl), his sister-in-laws Jane (Tony), Donna (Don) and many nieces and nephews whom he adored: Tony, Carrie, Peter, David, Amanda, Lauren, Steve, Alex, Stacey, Erik, Logan, as well as numerous grandnieces, grandnephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and treasured lifelong friends and neighbors ä angels in disguise.
Phil was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Edwin and Lucille Malinowski; his baby brother, David; his sister and brother-in-law, Claudia and Jim Graef; and his older brother, Tony (Jane).
While we mourn his passing, we celebrate his legacy. And in true Phil fashion, he's already getting the party started at his new address... Heaven.
Michigan Celebration of Life 9-27-2025
A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Holy Redeemer Church, 1721 Junction, Detroit, MI 48209 followed by a luncheon at The Park Place Catering and Banquet Hall, 23400 Park Street, Dearborn, MI 48124, from 11:15 am to 4:00 pm.
Florida Celebration of Life 10-25-2025
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from Noon to 5:00 pm, at The Double Tree by Hilton, located 13051 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33907.