Malone Alumni News

  Norman Phillips '67, age 82, passed away on December 7th. Norman graduated from Malone with a degree in Social Sciences. He then went on to serve as a pastor for almost 4 decades in churches in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Kentucky. Norman was deeply committed to his faith, and remained involved in the church after retiring from his pastoral work. Norman is survived by his wife, Carmen. We send our prayers and condolences to the family of Norman during this difficult time, and pray the comfort and peace of the Lord would surround his family. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Barbara Helmuth '62, age 82, passed away on December 4th. Barbara attended Malone, where she met her husband, Dale. Barbara was very active in her church community and very committed to her faith in the Lord. Barbara also shared a tremendous love for music, playing both the violin and viola. Barbara is survived by her two children and three grandchildren. We send our prayers and condolences to the family of Barbara during this difficult time and pray the peace and comfort of the Lord would surround her family. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Joanne Lehman '96, on the publishing of the second novel in her Christian trilogy, Susan's Hope. This book comes after the release of Leah's Faith last year, with the third book, Fannie's Love, set to publish next year. The three books explore topics such as growth and forgiveness in a fictional Amish community in Holmes county. Lehman's Mennonite faith deeply influences these stories, as well as her work with the Mental Health and Recovery Board during the 1990s and 2000s. You can purchase this book on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or other platforms. Lehman will also be a part of a book signing featuring several authors at the Gospel Bookstore in Berlin on October 25th from 9am-1pm as well as the Buckeye Book Fair in Wooster on November 1st from 9:30am-4pm. Visit here to learn more about Joanne or book her a presentation. Congratulations to Joanne on this amazing achievement!

  Congratulations to Michael Grant '85 on being named the Associate AD for Championship Resources at the University of North Alabama. Michael brings an extensive background in athletics, working as a Division I basketball coach at several places, including Coppin State and Southern. At UNA, Michael will be in charge of fundraising efforts for the athletic department, as well as work closely with the Foundation staff. Michael graduated from Malone in 1985 with a degree in Physical Education. We want to congratulate Michael on this opportunity for him and his family and pray for their transition into this new phase life! To read the full article about Michael's hiring, click here .

  Velma Morris '62, age 88, passed away on November 6th. Velma was deeply committed to her faith, and the Lord impacted her in many ways throughout her life. Velma graduated with her degree in education from then Malone College, and loved to care for and teach children. She also later worked for the Department of Defense in an administrative capacity. Velma is survived by her 2 children, 3 grandchildren, and soon-to-be great-granddaughter. We send our prayers to the family of Velma during this difficult time, and hope that the peace & comfort of the Lord would surround them.

  Joey Foos '20 is living out his calling as a hall director at Taylor University. Foos is in his second year at Taylor, and serves a mentor for the students in Bergwall Hall, upholding the standards of Taylor and the Life Together Covenant (LTC). Foos has a great experience during his time at Malone, and was deeply impacted by his Resident Director (RD), and knew he wanted to do the same for others.  Joey has a gift for meeting students where they are at, and he wants to build an intentional community at Bergwall Hall that does the same. The job for Foos does not come without difficulties however. Foos is trying to learn to set effective boundaries for himself, and wants to balance helping the students in Bergwall, with caring for himself. Foos finds great joy in helping those around him, and is using his gifts as a hall director to do just that. To read the full article on Joey, click here .

  Malik Frederick '25 is helping to provide Thanksgiving meals to eight local families in Torrington, Wyoming this holiday season. Malik is a 2023 graduate of Eastern Wyoming College, and returned to Torrington after graduating from Malone this past May. Malik led this effort to provide food to families in need through partnerships with EWC, as well as Number 34, a nonprofit where Malik now works. We are proud of Malik and all of the work he is doing to impact his local community!

  LaMar Wyse '68 is utilizing his talents to help provide comfort to those in need. Wyse obtained his Master's in hospital administration and served as a hospital administrator in various capacities for over 3 decades. Through his career, music never left Wyse as a passion. He graduated with a degree in music from Malone, and played at various events in the community and other special occasions. After moving back to Stark County upon retirement, Wyse has found a new way to impact others through music. He now volunteers to play the piano for patients and their families in the Bedford lobby of Aultman hospital. LaMar understands the impact that music can have on people, especially in the context of a hospital where people are dealing with a wide range of emotions or situations. To read the full spotlight of LaMar, click here .

  Congratulations to Jesse '21 and Rachel '20 Yost on the birth of their baby boy, Grayson. Grayson was born on November 11th and is doing very well. Sending our prayers to the family for health and grace as they transition into this new season of life!

  Congratulations to Sarah Tunning '00, LMHC, who has recently been promoted to Chief Operating Officer at One Hope United (OHU)!  Sarah brings more than 25 years of experience in child welfare, mental health, and organizational leadership to this role. Since joining OHU, she has served in several key leadership roles, including Chief Program Officer, Executive Director of Florida, and Senior Vice President of Continuous Quality Improvement.   In her new role, Sarah will oversee programs, human resources, and operations across Illinois and Florida, ensuring that OHU continues to deliver high-quality services to over 10,000 children and families each year. Congratulations to Sarah on this amazing achievement!

  Congratulations to Crystal '16 and Tyler Ward on the birth of their baby boy, Nico. Praying for continued health and grace as the family transitions into this new phase of life!

  Jani Hershberger '11 has found success in Heritage Bread Co., a home business she started thanks to word-of-mouth. Jani relies on local, natural ingredients to make her signature sourdough bread. Jani started her journey by trying to make better bread for her family, using a sourdough starter provided by her sister (who is now her sous chef). Soon after, she began to sell her extra loaves to local farmer's markets, and thus, a loyal base of customers was created. Jani focuses on keeping her operations small, so customers receive the best product possible. Jani will even hand grind the grain she uses for her sourdough loaves and other products. She also utilizes several ancient grains to help make her bread as good as possible, but also making it quite unique too. COVID saw a boom for Heritage Bread Co. with convenient and easy porch pick-ups for Hershberger's goods. Jani now has a shed on her property known as the "bread shed" to help with the operations resulti...

  Congratulations to the Hiland Lady Hawks volleyball team, who found a season of success on their way to becoming the top team in the Inter-Valley Conference (IVC), and the top seed in the East District in Division VI for the OHSAA tournament. Effort and intensity have defined the season for Hiland, which makes Coach Kelly Miller '02 very proud of her players. The players on the team have really bonded with each other, forging memories and relationships that stretch far beyond the volleyball court. Players on the team even chose a word and found a corresponding Biblical verse for the word, and then related that to the world of volleyball, tying faith into their play. The Lady Hawks recently concluded their season in the District Championship, but this season was one to remember for the Lady Hawks and Coach Miller. Congratulations on the great season! To read the entire article, click here .

  Patricia (Pat) J. Pasco '61, age 87, passed away on Monday, October 27th. Patricia grew up in Canton, and graduated from then Canton Lehman High School. She graduated from Malone with a degree in education, and taught at multiple schools during her career.  Patricia volunteered so much of her time, including in Cub Scouts, PTO, and other various events. She was also musically gifted, serving as a pianist and as a church organist. Patricia is survived by her two children and 4 grandchildren. We send our prayers to the family of Patricia during this time, and pray the peace and comfort of the Lord would surround her family during this time. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Jacob Hayward '19 on the release of his new book,  Simplicity as a Pathway to Rest . Jacob is the Family Pastor at Fulton Creek Friends Church.    Written in a warm, pastoral voice, the book offers practical reflections on how embracing simplicity can bring peace to our daily lives. The book is designed to be an easy and accessible read for anyone and was released on August 1. To purchase the book click  here . Congratulations Jacob!

  Congratulations to Amy Ford '16 and her sister, Lindsey Gartman, on the grand opening of their new bookshop and craft space in Bath Township, Woven Words Bookshop. The grand opening will take place this Saturday, October 25th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 843 N Cleveland Massillon Rd #4 in Bath Township’s Ghent Square. Visitors will receive a free tote bag with a purchase of over $100 and a free sticker for every purchase (while supplies last).  The bookshop features a section filled with both new and used reads for customers, a selection of craft kits, and a kids' section for young readers as well. Woven Words also has craft events scheduled through the beginning of the new year. If you are a local artist, and are interested in leading a craft session, contact the bookshop. We pray for a successful new business venture for Amy and her sister,  and we wish them nothing but the best!

  Congratulations to Brady Stevens '21 on his assignment to Darke County as an Ohio Wildlife Officer! Brady graduated from Malone with a degree in biology and he graduated from the Wildlife Officer Academy in 2024.  As a wildlife officer, Brady has statewide authority to enforce wildlife regulations and protect state lands, waterways, and property. He also contributes to public safety both locally in southwest Ohio and in Ohio’s vast outdoors.  Prior to this assignment, Brady was an at-large officer in central Ohio. Congratulations to Brady, we wish you the best of luck in this new role!

  Welcome to the world Evan Ezekiel Roush! Congratulations to Sydney '16 and Ryan '16 Roush on the birth of their son! Evan weighed in at just under 7 pounds, and was about 19 inches long! Praying for rest and comfort for the family as they settle into this new season of life! Congratulations once again to Sydney and Ryan!

  Carolyn Ness '21, the founder of Project REBUILD, age 85, has passed away following a battle with a brief illness. Project REBUILD is a job-training and education program for young adults in Canton and Stark County.  Carolyn launched the program over 25 years ago to help young adults gain valuable trade skills while completing their high school diplomas. Carolyn made a tremendous impact on the lives of those she touched, and Project REBUILD lives on in her memory. She truly lived out Malone's mission of Christ's Kingdom First as she made an indelible impact on her community and world through Project REBUILD. We send our prayers to the family of Carolyn during this difficult time!

  Ross Mellott '11 passed away at the age of 63 at his home in Magnolia, KY. Russ was a  proud & decorated veteran of the military, serving in the Gulf War. Russ also had a special passion for the gospel and ministering to those around him. He is survived by his wife, Julie, their 5 children, and 11 grandchildren. We send our prayers to the family of Ross during this difficult time! To read the full obituary, click here .

  Casandra "Lyn" Goodwin-Shawver '15 has always known she wanted to teach children. This is especially significant because the school she founded and owns, Lakemore K-12 school, celebrates 25 years of business. Lyn started the SUPER (Students Using Proven Educational Resources) Learning Center 25 years ago in her basement with 14 students. After 6 years, Lyn knew she needed to upsize to fit her growing business. Lyn started to draw attention after she was able to help her own child, who struggled with dyslexia amongst other challenges. Two families have moved specifically so Lyn could teach their children. One family came from Columbus, and the other from California. Fast forward to today, and SUPER Learning Center now works with 32 different school districts. There are over 150 students who attend SUPER, with waiting lists for 2 different grades. Lyn also employs 60 staff members to ensure there is a focused, individualized approach for each student who attends. More tha...

  Congratulations to Ashlyn and Benjamin Garcia on the birth of their son, Shepherd Benjamin Garcia! Shepherd was born on September 13th, 2025 at 12:25pm, and he weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz and was 21 inches long! Sending prayers to Ashlyn and Benjamin for their new little blessing and this new season of life!

  Priscilla Casto '71, age 84, passed away on September 16th. Priscilla obtained her Bachelor's degree in Education from Malone and taught elementary education for a short period of time in Canton city schools before adhering to a call from the Lord to provide care for seniors in nursing homes.  Priscilla was deeply rooted in her faith, teaching women's bible studies for years and hoping to regain her strength in order to teach again. She prayed for each family member every single day, and took that same care into her work as well. She is survived by her three sons, 11 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. We send our prayers to the family of Priscilla during this difficult time! To read the full obituary, click here .

  Abe '68 and Diane '70 Bible were at Canton First Friends Church recently and shared about their ministry as missionaries in the Ukraine where they have served for several decades dedicated to living out Malone's mission of serving the Church, community, and world! Thank you Abe and Diane for your continued service in ministry!

Malone University has officially announced our 2025 Alumni Award winners. The Alumni Awards are a longstanding tradition that honor Pioneers carrying Malone's legacy into their respective fields and who are committed to serving the Church, their communities, and our world. Congratulations to our distinguished recipients on their well-earned accomplishments!  You can read about this year's award winners below. Join us in celebrating these Pioneers at our 2025 Alumni Awards Banquet--tickets can be purchased at malone.edu/homecoming. Dave Yakley '95: Alumnus of the Year Dave is a 1995 graduate of Malone with a degree in Communications Comprehensive (now Integrated Language Arts). Dave was heavily involved on campus during his time as a student, as he was a Course Assistant (CA), a member of Chorale and involved with the Aviso.  Dave also earned his Master's Degree from the University of Baltimore in Publication Design in 1998. Dave has received numerous awards, including t...

  Welcome to the world Joseph (Joey) John Brant! Joey was born on September 8th, 2025 to Hannah '20 and Dylan Brant! Joey was 7 lbs 8oz. and was 20 inches long! Congratulations to Hannah and Dylan on this amazing blessing we're praying for them as they adjust to life with a new little one!

  Rod Neuenschwander '99 has set his book launch for October 2nd at Malone University. Rod is the co-founder of  GIFT∙OLOGY , a worldwide gift fulfillment company. Rod is now launching the third book from the  GIFT∙OLOGY team, titled  From Crisis to Clarity: A Proven Framework to Transform Your Business on the Brink.  Join us on Thursday, October 2nd from 7-9pm at Malone for a time of celebrating Rod and the GIFT ∙OLOGY team on their hard work and the new book! Doors open at 6:30pm. Click here to RSVP for the event. We hope to see you there!

  Annette Corpe '93, age 76, passed into the arms of Jesus on September 7th, 2025. Annette graduated from Malone with a degree in Business Management, and had a career in social work. Annette also had a national champion St. Bernard who was one of her best friends in life. Annette is survived by her 4 children, 9 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. We send our prayers to the family of Annette during this difficult time. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Nathan Grover '25 on being named as an assistant coach for men's lacrosse coach. Nathan was a standpoint player for the Pioneers during his time at Marietta. Nathan was most recently an assistant coach at Malone for 2 seasons while pursuing his MBA.  Athletic Director Larry Hiser said of Nathan " He is committed to the coaching profession and brings a strong work ethic and even temperament to our team. He's already been worth his weight in gold for managing the team so well in this rare transition to our next head coach. I look forward to our men's lacrosse team maintaining its positive momentum with Nate on the staff." Congratulations to Nathan on this opportunity! To read the full article, click here .

  John P. Meimer '68, age 79, passed away on August 29th at his home in Mount Gilead. John was a graduate of Massillon High School, then later came to Malone for his bachelor's degree. John married his wife, Eddie Lou, in 1968 and they spent 57 years together. John was an avid farmer and spent time at the Worthington Farmers Market, where he and his wife sold their maple products. John leaves behind Eddie Lou and two children along with eight grandchildren. We send our prayers to the family of John during this difficult time and ask the Lord to comfort his family. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Welcome to the world Elsie Renee Moomaw! Elsie was born on August 19th to Katie '19 and Tyler '21 Moomaw! She was 8lbs 8 oz. and we are so happy for Katie and Tyler as they embark on this new chapter of life!

  Welcome to the world Wylder Woolf Sowers! Wylder arrived on August 21, 2025 and weighed in at 5 lbs. 3 oz. Congratulations to the new parents, Annie and Jake Sowers of Morning Star Friends Church! We are so excited for you as you enter into this new chapter of life!

  Welcome to the world Rolin Douglas Galpin! Rolin was born on January 30th, 2025 to Kayleigh '13 and Matthew Galpin of Salem Ohio! Rolin  weighed 6lb 10oz and was 18.25" long. He is the joy of his parent's lives! Congratulations once again to Kayleigh and Matthew on this exciting new chapter of life!

  Clarice Mann Lackey passed away at the remarkable age of 99. Clarice loved and cherished her family, and her love knew no bounds. Her home became a sanctuary and a place of comfort for her family. Clarice was also a pillar of her faith and devoted member of her church.  We send our prayers to the family of Clarice during this challenging time and celebrate the life she lived. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Jill A. Blasiman '98 passed away on August 23rd, 2025 in Canton, Ohio at the age of 76. After graduating from Malone, Jill had a long and successful career in the healthcare industry. Jill had many passions in life, such as traveling and seeing new places, spending time in nature, biking and swimming, and camping trips with family. Jill also enjoyed crafting and sewing.  We send our thoughts and prayers to the family of Jill during this challenging time, but we celebrate the life she lived and those she impacted.

  Carol Boltz '01 passed away on August 23, 2025 after a battle with advanced cancer. Carol loved teaching and spent her entire teaching career at Newcomerstown. Carol received her Master's Degree from Malone. She was known for her caroling, particularly with happy birthday songs or Christmas carols. Carol was also involved with 4-H for a number of years, having grown up on a dairy farm. Carol is survived by her parents, her husband of over 30 years, James, and her two sons, Chase and Weston. We send our thoughts and prayers to the family of Carol during this difficult time but celebrate the life she lived and those she impacted.

  James F. Mason '66, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, surrounded by his family. Jim received his bachelor's degree in biology from Malone, and went on to have a successful career in entomology until his retirement. He was an avid fan of things such as model trains and motorcycles, and loved traveling, specifically to Maine. James is survived by his loving wife Mary, along with his children and seven grandchildren. We pray for the family of James during this difficult time and celebrate the life that he lived. To read the full obituary, click here .

  John R. Kiste III '90, age 66, passed away peacefully on August 7th following a brief battle with cancer. John obtained his Bachelor's in business from Malone. John served as the Executive Director of the Stark County Convention and Visitors Bureau for a number of years, and also served as an adjunct professor at Kent State Tuscarawas.  John had a wonderful fascination with Halloween and wrote over 70 short stories over the years. We send our prayers to the family of John during this difficult time but also celebrate the life he lived and those he impacted.

  Congratulations to Seth '16 and Katrina '19 Kenyon on the birth of their son, Felix Jay Kenyon! He was born on August 10th and was 6 lbs. 9.8 oz. and was 18.5 inches long. Praise God for another little Pioneer entering into the world!

  Congratulations to Luke '19 and Ellen '20 Murray on the birth of their daughter, Margaret Mary Murray! She came into the world on August 4th, and was 8 lbs. 3oz. and was 21 inches long! Praise God for another little Pioneer entering the world!

  Martha "Marty" Elaine Freer, age 89, passed away on August 5th, 2025. Martha earned a bachelor's in religious education from Malone. She and her husband, George Freer, served for over 50 years together in many churches throughout southern Ohio, Indiana, and Rhode Island.  Marty was an avid fan of flowers and being in the garden. She enjoyed tending to the bird feeders at the Friends Fellowship Community. We pray for the family of Marty during this difficult time in their lives but also celebrate the amazing life she lived. To read the full obituary, click here . 

  Daniel F. Smith '70, aged 77, passed away in his house on August 1st, 2025. Daniel was a retired Sgt. First Class from the Army. Daniel was survived by his wife of 52 years, Cherie, and many children/grandchildren as well. We send our prayers to the family of Daniel during this difficult time but also celebrate the life he lived. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. David Kamwesa! David and Jacquelyn '14 were married on July 19th! We send our prayers to them for a lifetime of continued growth and happiness in this new chapter of life together!

  Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Aidan Calderhead!! Aidan '24 and Juliea '24 were married on June 20th of 2025! So happy for these Pioneers and we send our prayers for a lifetime of happiness and growth!

  Welcome to the world Aven James Brownfield! Aven came into the world Tuesday morning (July 29th) at 10:08 am weighing in at 6 lbs. 9.6 oz and measuring 17.5 inches - joined the family and the ranks of future Pioneer.   Mother and son are doing well!!  Join us in welcoming Aven and keeping the family in your thoughts and prayers during this wonderful time of celebration.

  David Thomas Owen III '73, passed away at the age of 82 on July 28th. David was a member of the United States Air Force for 4 years. David was married to his wife, Denise, for 52 years. We send our prayers to the family of David during this challenging time, but also celebrate the life he lived and the people he impacted. To read the full obituary, click here .

  Patricia (Pat) Ruth Dilling '66 passed away on July 24th, 2025 at her home following a brief illness. Patricia was married to her husband, John, for 72 years. Patricia was heavily involved in the Louisville school system. even becoming the first female principal at Louisville.  Pat was heavily involved in her church and made it a priority to read the Bible every day and pray for those around her. She was also an avid traveler, seeing the beauty of all 50 states. We pray for the family of Pat during this difficult time and celebrate the life she lived. To read the full obituary, click here .