OBITUARIES

Georgette Malik, a life from NASA to the Mets

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On Sept. 10, 1966, Georgette Jeanne Cullen wed Robert Malik. The two were married for 55 years until Georgette’s passing on July 11, 2021.

But that does not tell the entire story. Their relationship began 61 years ago while both were teenagers growing up in Inwood. She was a high school cheerleader, who at 16 was famous for her witty quotes. She once told nuns at the Catholic high school of Saint Alphonsus, when questioned why she was late for class, that the New York City electric subway trains had run out of gas.

She had a great sense of humor that carried throughout her entire life. Upon graduation from high school, she worked for the Westin Electric Co., on the NASA space project as part of the team overseeing John Glenn’s achievement to orbit the Earth. After leaving the space program, she worked for the law firm of William Shea.

This accomplishment led to the New York Mets being created in New York City, and further led to the building and naming of Shea Stadium.

She had the privilege of traveling to Japan, representing Lincoln National Corp., steering the America’s Cup sailboat in 1996. She also helped arrange the famous three tenors — Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo and José Carreras — in support of the Cleveland Opera, and the honor of having dinner with Pavarotti.

Her greatest joy was her two children, Robert and Lisa, and her three grandchildren — Emma, Lexi and Blake — and in support for her best friend: her husband.

She was a fierce supporter for those who couldn’t defend themselves. She disliked discrimination, and believed everyone was created the same. She demonstrated her beliefs by helping to support candidates that shared her vision.

Throughout her children’s high school years, she always made room in her home for teenagers who were having family conflicts. Her smile, her laugh and her wisdom will forever be missed.

While lung cancer took her life, her memory will not be forgotten.

Georgette Jean Cullen Malik,