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Obituaries » Diana Levick Malat

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Diana Levick Malat

July 1, 1938 - March 3, 2024

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Diana Levick Malat, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on March 3, 2024, at the age of 85. She was born on July 1, 1938, in Elk City, Oklahoma, to Dena Weinberg (born in London, England) and Dr. Julius Levick (born in Ekaterinoslav, Russia, now Dnipro, Ukraine. Preceding her in death are her cherished parents, as well as her vivacious sister Janice Ruth Anchell (Melvin) of Mission Viejo and her doting brother Norman Levick (Bootsie) of Amarillo, Texas.

Diana’s journey through life was marked by determination intelligence, and a vibrant spirit. She pursued her education at Washington University in St. Louis, where she earned a Business Degree. This educational foundation served her well as she embarked on a career in the Young Executive Program at Neiman Marcus in Dallas, Texas.

Her true fulfillment, however, came from her family that started with the birth of her two children Ann Victor of Long Beach and Julie Victor of Fairfield. Diana celebrated 53 years of marriage with her devoted husband, Gerald Malat, of Los Angeles. Together, they joyously integrated his three children into their family: Randal Malat of Mill Valley, Cheryl Malat of Los Angeles, and Jill Malat (Patri) of Seattle. Their family was blessed with the arrival of grandchildren Gabriel, Spencer, and Felix, who brought immense joy and pride to Diana’s life. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

Known for her infectious personality and quick wit, Diana was a beacon of laughter and light in the lives of those around her. She possessed a deep love for animals, never failing to melt at the sight of a furry friend. Ballentine, Macintosh, and Patrick Lucky were her cherished four-legged companions, each bringing their own unique brand of joy into her life.

In addition to her devotion to family, Diana dedicated most of life to volunteering and enriching the lives of others beginning with the UCLA Arts Council.

When the Skirball Cultural Center opened, Diana found her passion and true home-away-from home for nearly 25 years where she formed many cherished friendships. She loved learning about the new exhibits and taking the guests on tour. But when the imaginative Noah’s Ark opened up, boy did she find her special place. Nothing gave her more enjoyment than her time spent with the kids and their families.

“There are many Skirball volunteers and docents but only a special few who were with us inside the Noah’s Ark galleries,” said Nina Silver, Director of Noah’s Ark and Family Programs. “Diana’s post in the ark was usually in the first room, called the storm gallery. She would welcome families as they came in, and she’d always bring a sense of loving reassurance and comfort to little ones who may have been feeling a little overwhelmed in the storm. She was soft spoken, incredibly sweet and kind, she had the most twinkly smile. Diana was always, always so happy to see the children in the ark and to see us and catch up about life and family. She adored her family and she always lit up when telling us about you all. We will miss Diana’s generous dedication to the Skirball, her kindness and her love for all of us at Noah’s Ark.”

 

Diana’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, but her memory will be carried on by the countless lives she touched with her kindness, humor, and generosity. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Skirball Cultural Center or an animal charity of your choice, honoring Diana’s enduring spirit of giving and compassion.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her, and she will be deeply missed by all who loved her. And, as she would often say, “Keep your sunny side up.”