Charles Wayne Maloney, a legendary figure in the world of theatre and gunsmithing, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy that touched countless lives. Charlie, as he was affectionately known, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2024, at his home in Catonsville, Maryland, following sudden heart complications. He was 79 years old.
Born on June 5, 1945, in Washington D.C., Charlie’s life was a remarkable journey of diverse accomplishments. He served as a Third-Class Radioman on the USS Enterprise CVAN-65 during the Vietnam War, where he was entrusted with top-secret correspondence. His service, marked by dedication and honor, was just the beginning of a life filled with passion and creativity.
After his military service, Charlie pursued his love for the arts, earning a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Acting and a Master’s of Fine Arts in Directing from Virginia Commonwealth University. Over his illustrious career, he was involved in more than 200 productions, both in live theatre and independent films. His work as a director and actor left an indelible mark on the theatrical community, and his infectious laugh and larger-than-life personality made him beloved by all who knew him.
Charlie was also a world-renowned gunsmith, particularly known for his expertise with M1 Garand and M14 National Match Rifles. His company, Gunning Arts, founded in 1977, became a testament to his skill and dedication to the craft. He apprenticed under the legendary Ray Parkinson, who had learned from John Garand himself. Charlie’s contributions to gunsmithing were immense, culminating in his role as Chief Gunsmith at Fulton Armory, where he served for over a decade before retiring in 2023.
Charlie was a man of many talents and a heart full of love. After the passing of his third wife, Patricia Mostad, he raised his son, Nicholas Maloney, as a single father, with support from his first wife, Karen Vleck. His devotion to his family was as unwavering as his passion for his work. He is survived by his son, Nicholas, daughter-in-law Jean-Kylie Maloney, and his former wife and caregiver, Kristine Duba.
In the wake of his passing, the community has come together to support the Maloney family. A fundraiser organized by his son Nicholas has been set up to help cover memorial expenses. So far, $50 has been raised towards the $10,000 goal.
Tributes have poured in on social media, reflecting the deep impact Charlie had on those around him. Tanya Davis, a close friend, shared her memories of Charlie: “Take a final bow, Charles Wayne Maloney. You will be missed! When I first met Charlie, I was so intimidated by his larger-than-life personality, but after having the honor of being directed by him in Lion in Winter at 2nd Star Productions and then truly knowing him over the years as the sweet man under the tough exterior, I grew to love him. Bravo, Charlie!”
The community, friends, and family will forever cherish the memories of Charlie, remembering him not only for his talents but for the warmth, laughter, and love he brought into their lives.
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Charles Wayne Maloney. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
Short Summary of Charles Wayne Maloney
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Charles Wayne Maloney |
| Date of Passing | August 12, 2024 |
| Fundraiser Created By | Nicholas Maloney |
| Goal Amount | $10,000 |
| Amount Raised | $50 |
| Location | Catonsville, MD |
| Purpose | Memorial expenses |
Note:This post was written and edited by Asher Jones, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.