Ron Malone — a highly respected former Westport police chief, longtime Representative Town Meeting member and Westport native — died Sunday. He was 88
Tributes to Malone came from one of his successors, and the current police chief.
Former Westport Police Chief Bill Chiarenzelli says: “Chief Ron Malone was dedicated to his family, his job and the town of Westport.
“His first assignment, dangerous and demanding, was as an undercover narcotics officer for Fairfield County and the state of Connecticut.
Ron Malone
“Upon his return to the Westport Police Department, Ron was assigned as a detective to share his insights and experiences with his fellow officers.
“His career developed as an investigator. He was promoted to chief of police, after many years of dedication to the public.”
Current Westport Police Chief Foti Koskinas adds: “While I never had a chance to work for or with him, I know he loved the Police Department and the town equally.
“He was a fixture in town early in his career. He was always willing to listen to me as a young officer, and give his insights.”
Malone’s first job was not with the Westport Police, however. As a young adult he ran a successful refuse business. In 1968 he sold it, and became a Westport officer.
After a year with the WPD, he joined a federal narcotics task force. He returned to Westport after 3½ years undercover.
Malone was promoted to sergeant in 1975, after posting the highest score ever recorded on the state personnel department promotion test.
He became chief of detectives in 1977, and in 1984 was named police chief.
His family says, “He was ahead of his time when it came to policing strategies. He was well respected by the entire force, for his hands-on leadership and unwavering commitment to his officers and community. He knew leadership is not about authority; it is about relationships and trust.”
Malone was also deeply involved with the Westport Police Athletic League.
Malone retired in 1990 after 22 years on the force. He continued serving his community as a member of the Representative Town Meeting for 16 years.
His family notes, “Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ron was known for his gift of connecting with people. Whether family, friend, colleague or stranger, Ron’s kindness and humor were felt by everyone he encountered.
Malone was an avid photographer. In retirement he enjoyed looking at and creating art, listening to music, gardening, visiting museums, spending time at the Westport Library, and enjoying his grandchildren.
“Ron had a way of putting things in perspective, breaking down complicated situations with humor, patience, and wisdom. Always the storyteller, Ron was a friend to all and treated everyone with dignity and respect.”
Malone is survived by his wife of 68 years, Carol (Davis); sons Joe (Diane) and Bill (Michelle); daughter-in-law Sue; grandchildren Michael, Kristen (Tom), Danielle (Eric), Brian, Matt, Alex and Jamie, and 3 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son Jimmy.
A wake is set for Saturday (April 5, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.), with a funeral service at 1 p.m. at Harding Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Westport Police Athletic League, 50 Jesup Road, Westport, CT 06880. Click here to leave online condolences.
The family is grateful to the staff at the Village of Kensington Place for the loving and compassionate care provided to Ron and Carol over the past 5 years.