James Buddy Malkemus

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the unexpectant passing of James Malkemus on January 4, 2024. He was born into a military family in Anaheim, California on June 29, 1936, to the parents of George Dewey Malkemus Sr. and Dorothy Louise West Malkemus and his two older siblings. Also known as “Buddy” to his family, he would be the third out of five children welcomed into the Malkemus family.

Being in a military family they moved often in his early life. In a 12 year span the family lived in as many as 4 different states including Panama Canal. It was not until his father’s retirement in 1948 that they settled down in San Antonio.

James received his formal education at South San Antonio High School, but by the age of 17 he would join the military just like his father had. He joined the United States Navy for 2 years before being transferred to the Air Force. After a few years with the Air Force, he joined the Army Reserves as Active Duty serving in Korean War and Dessert Storm as an aircraft mechanic. He retired from the Army in 1996 as a Sergent First Class. He enjoyed his retirement by playing golf, taking care of the stray dogs that happened upon his home, looking after his sisters, and playing the lottery, especially scratch offs. He was up to a trip to Eagle Pass at any given moment.

He was a simple man, not needing much. He could find the best hole in the wall restaurants or the freshest fruit stand and his love for a good tamales was impressive.

James is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Franklin “Butch” Malkemus. He is survived by his only child, Terri Lynn Malkemus Davidson; his siblings, George ”Sonny” Malkemus Jr., Beverly Loraine Hunt, and Elsie “Tootie” Shows; his twin grandchildren Rachel Davidson Amaya and Michael Davidson and their spouses; his great grandchildren, Hannah, Justin, and Logan. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews including a dear niece Debbie Rodriguez who became close to Buddy in the later years as she visited regularly and helped with doctor appointments.

A service will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 10AM where military honors will be presented. In leu of flowers please consider a donation to your local animal shelter.