Margarette Malafa Obituary (1935 - 2025)

Margarette Malafa was born April 11, 1935, in Lankin, North Dakota to John and Agnes (Sticha) Beneda. She graduated from Lankin High School and Mayville State University with a bachelor’s degree in education. She taught high school English in Oakley, MN and Grafton, ND. Margarette had a variety of interests including vegetable and flower gardening. She was a collector of sentimental items, especially cardinals, and was a talented artist. Margarette was an expert around the kitchen and enjoyed cooking and baking, especially for her family. She could create a fantastic meal out of anything. She was not afraid to explore new recipes and expand the variety of great treats and snacks. Margarette had many hobbies and was extremely organized. Her greatest joy was being a mother and grandmother. Margarette married Melvin Malafa and together raised three boys. Margarette is survived by her sons, Dr. Stuart (Annie) Malafa, Rockford MI; Curt (Lori) Malafa, Bismarck, ND; grandchildren; Nathan (Samantha) Malafa, Las Vegas, NV; Stefan (Rushael) Malafa, Leslie, MI: Shane (Breann) Malafa, Portland, MI; Jaran (Samantha) Malafa, Cedar Springs, MI; Hannah Malafa, Rockford, MI; Xander and Perrin Malafa, Rockford, MI; Adam (Brianna Gohdes) Malafa, Horace, ND; Darin (Emily) Malafa, West Fargo, ND; Ryan Malafa, Bismarck, ND; five great grandchildren, and a special daughter, Dr. MaryJo Malafa, South Lyon, MI. Surviving siblings include Dennis (Verna) Beneda; Kenny (Gale) Beneda; brother-in-law, Truman Ness, and many nieces and nephews. Preceding Margarette in death were her husband, Melvin; son, Kevin; sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Ed Gaarder; and sister, Carol Ness.