Chicago Air And Water Show Director To See Memorial Service

A long time Chicago aviation fixture passed away in his sleep on the morning of December 24.

Rudy Malnati, a man who made himself an integral part of the city through his work in the city's air show as well as his family's contribution to traditional Chicago Deep Dish Pizza. A member of a multigenerational culinary dynasty, Malnati's absence leaves a deep hole in the City's landscape. 

Malnati's wife Annette has revealed his 5-year battle with gallbladder cancer, a part of his life that he had until now kept private. His work with the Chicago Air and Water Show was his "baby", having attended every one since 1959. He made his way up the ladder, volunteering for the program until becoming the successor to former Mayor Richard Daley. Even in his toughest moments, his family says, he made sure he would see the show through. He scaled back his chemotherapy for the 2021 program in order to keep enough of his lively energy. 

Malnati was such a notable figure in the air show circuit, he was made an honorary member of both the Navy's Blue Angels and the Air Force Thunderbirds, of which both teams reached out with condolences to his family. Annette said that he didn't want to be the focus of attention. “He chose not to make it known because that wasn’t his focus. He didn’t have time for people to feel bad for him or the pity party. The Chicago Air and Water Show is his legacy,” she said. “He’s the reason that Chicago has that show. He’s always been the one behind the scenes, which is great because he didn’t need to be in the limelight.”

FMI: www.airshows.aero