Gary Malatesta, 57, of Davenport, FL, passed away on August 16, 2023, surrounded by his children.

Gary was born February 13, 1966, in Washington DC to Jesse David Malatesta and Peggy Earnestine Thompson Malatesta.

After he graduated from Tascosa High School in Amarillo, TX, in 1984, he went on to study Media Communications at Amarillo College. Gary then started his career as a Television Production Editor, working for TV stations across Florida, including WJKS where he earned two Addy awards, and WTVT.

Gary returned to college at Strayer University and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice in 2014. He began his career at Walt Disney World in 2015, where he was proud to Protect the Magic as a Security Investigator.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; a sister Carol (Malatesta) Gambrell; and brothers Robert 'Bobby' Malatesta and Jesse Malatesta.

Gary is survived by his daughter Paige (Malatesta) Nicholson, her husband Dave and grandchildren Autumn and Jordan; daughter Kayleigh (Malatesta) Colbert, her wife Michele and grandchildren Ashton and Sarah, and great grandchild Allie; son Steven Malatesta, his wife Samantha and grandchildren Makinley and Vincent; sister Susan (Malatesta) Crites and nephews Tanner and Trevor; sister Connie (Thompson) Coleman and niece Amelia and nephew Marc; niece Sheree Malatesta and great niece Jazlyn; and nieces Monica and Ashley.

Gary also left behind a host of Disney Cast members who were also family.

Gary was an avid Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Hurricanes fan. He enjoyed building model cars and planes, and was a lifelong Star Wars enthusiast. He loved telling the best Dad jokes, eating Tex Mex, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was very thoughtful and cared deeply for his family and friends. He always wanted those he loved to feel special.

Through organ donation, Gary was able to give the gift of life. He was a true hero. He will be forever missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in Gary's name at mendedhearts.org/donate .