Tony Malella

Michael Anthony “Tony” Malella, 56, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 27, 2023, in Cibolo, Texas. He leaves behind his wife Janel and their three children - Alia (Peyton), Devon, and Kim – as well as three grandchildren - Hudson, Bentley, and Royce. Tony is also survived by his parents Gerry and Valerie Malella, his sister Karen, and niece Emily.

Tony was born on December 24, 1966 in Vancouver, Washington and was raised in Kelso. His childhood was filled with family road trips, camping adventures, and attending many swim meets.  At Kelso High School, he was part of a regionally renowned marching band, varsity lettered in swimming, and graduated top 5% in his class.

In 1985, he left for Ellensburg, Washington to attend Central Washington University.  In addition to studying, he worked as a lifeguard and swim instructor at the Ellensburg Memorial Pool. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Janel, while they worked together at the pool.  Tony and Janel married in 1992 and they planted their roots in Ellensburg where they lived and raised their three children. Tony had a love for travelling and was always working hard and planning for the next adventure for the family or just the two of them.

Tony graduated from CWU in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Quickly after earning his degree, he was hired by the City of Ellensburg.  After 35 years with the city, he retired in October 2022 to fulfill his dream of leisure and travel with Janel in Texas. Tony filled his retirement days with new adventures of road-trips, frequent date nights, concerts and planning future cruises. 

We will never forget his hilarious sense of humor, his dedication to everything he loved, and his ability to protect and provide for those he cared for.  He was an incredible son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. Tony’s last piece of advice would be, “We don’t know how many tomorrows we have, so live your adventures today!”

A Celebration of Life reception will be held from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 14, 2023 at the Hal Holmes Center in Ellensburg.

Johnston & Williams of Ellensburg is assisting with providing a platform for online condolences for Tony's family, which may be left at www.johnston-williams.com