Clifford Daniel Malek, Sr. passed away on August 25, 2021 at the age of 87. He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Julia Malek and his brothers, Ralph and Julius (J.J.).

Clifford was born on September 13, 1933 in Houston, Texas. He graduated from Milby High School in 1952 and attended the University of Houston before meeting the love of his life, Barbara Klotz, on a blind date. It was love at first sight, and she supported his service in the Marine Corps 81mm Reserves, where he served for 8 years and held the office of Platoon Sergeant from 1954 to 1962. Together, they had 5 sons: Clifford (Tammy); Christopher (Aimee); Craig; Carey; and Curtis (Stacey). Besides being survived by his wife and sons, he also leaves two brothers, Douglas and Timothy (Kim), as well as fifteen grandchildren: Andrew, Angela, Adam, Matthew, Danielle, Elizabeth, Heather, Bryan, Chris Jr., Christian, Joshua, Anna, Amber, Maggie, and Shane, along with stepchildren, Brooke and Jake, Kent and Isiah, and his precious great-grandchildren: Benjamin, Caleb, Jordan, Ashlyn, Addison, Lilly, Ava, Ella Rose, Bryan, Jr., Dryden, Tyler, Austin, Christopher III, Autumn and Walker.

Clifford served proudly in the Houston Fire Department for 37 years from 1955-1992, eventually being named Senior Captain. His strong work ethic continued with his custom-home building and remodeling business from 1965-2010 and restoring and selling antique furniture. His strength and determination also led him to compete in the Police and Fire Olympics from 1983-2003, racking up 50 medals in track and field.

Clifford's devotion to his family was always his priority. While he led his sons as Scoutmaster of Cub Scouts Pack 53 for eight years, he taught his boys through hands-on lessons and adventures. His morning "roll call" consisted of flipping on the bedroom light and trumpeting, "Get up, get up in the morning!" And when he needed one of his sons, he covered his bases by calling, "Cliff, Chris, Craig, Carey, Curtis! Come here!" He also always saw to it that his family went on a memorable camping vacation every summer.

Clifford was a man of tradition. His Czech heritage was something he held close and dear. He and Barbara traveled to the Czech Republic several times to explore his ancestry. He was also a member of the Czech Center Museum Houston, where he donated his time and collections. And of course, two Czech customs that Clifford enjoyed most: dancing to polka music and making his well-known, homemade kolaches, a recipe handed down by his father.

Clifford was a devoted Catholic and member of the Knights of Columbus. He had been an active member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church for over 20 years, and of late, St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church. He loved the music as well as the parish community. He also served at one point as President of the Home Association of the Knights of Columbus, Regina Coeli Council 4577, and was named "Knight of the Month" in February 2004 and 2005.

Clifford was a beloved man by many, and his service and devotion to family will always be remembered.

A rosary will be prayed at 6:00pm Monday, August 30, at Peevey Funeral Home, with visitation following until 8:00pm. His funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 noon Tuesday, August 31, at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church. Rite of Committal will follow at Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery.

The family respectfully asks that all who attend the Visitation or Mass for Clifford wear a mask.