Jeffrey J. Maletz

Jeffrey J. Maletz, 53, of Livonia, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on November 19, 2025. 

He was born on July 3, 1972, in Detroit, Michigan. Jeff was a devoted son, father, friend, mentor, and teacher whose kindness and commitment touched countless lives. Jeff was known for his hard work and dedication. He owned and operated his contracting company, J & J Services, proudly serving many clients and maintaining genuine relationships with those he worked with. He was also a lifelong student of Wing Chun Do Gung Fu. Beginning his training at age seventeen, he later became an instructor at Ambrose Academy of Wing Chun Do, earning the rank of Sifu. In 2013, he fulfilled a dream by opening his own school, Organics Martial Arts (OMA). During this same period, Jeff became the primary caregiver for his grandmother, Caroline McGraw. For over five years, he cared deeply for her health, comfort, and well-being, an act of devotion that defined his character. No matter how many responsibilities he carried, he always made time for his daughter, his friends, and the passions that brought him joy. Jeff loved wholeheartedly. Superhero movies were a cherished tradition. He eagerly stood in line for opening day releases with his close friends, the Smith family, rituals that strengthened the bond between their families. He collected superhero figurines and Hot Wheels cars, crafted jewelry (especially in copper), and was dedicated to fitness, working out at the gym four times a week. Above all, Wing Chun Do remained his lifelong passion. Jeff was a natural community builder. He loved people, connecting, encouraging, and staying present in their lives from high school through adulthood. His infectious smile and warmth drew people to him wherever he went. Stories have poured in from clients he helped, friends he mentored, and individuals he taught essential skills, from drywalling and painting to carpentry and home renovation, often at times when they needed support the most. He built community in every space he occupied: at his gym, where people sought him out to train together, and at Ambrose Academy, where he spent more than thirty years teaching, training, and inspiring others. Generations of students knew him as a fun, enthusiastic training partner, a mentor, an instructor, and eventually a friend. Jeff approached life with joy, and he shared that joy generously. His friendship was genuine and nurturing. He had a rare gift for seeing people for who they truly were and making them feel valued. He touched many lives—and changed them for the better. His greatest pride was his daughter, Hailey. When Jeff became a single father, she remained by his side, and together they built a deep, enduring bond. He raised her to be strong, confident, and compassionate, supported by a community that cherished them both. As she grew older, their relationship only strengthened. To those who knew them, their love and trust were unmistakable. They were not only father and daughter, they were best friends.

Jeff is survived by his daughter, Hailey Maletz; his mother and stepfather, Denise and Walter Ziarko; his aunt Diane Walkonis; his cousins Kimberly Walkonis Trudnak, Kelly Walkonis, and Zack Walkonis; and his stepsister April VanBurg-Lane. He is also deeply missed by many friends and by his Wing Chun Do family and community. We find comfort in knowing that Jeff’s legacy lives on in the lessons he shared, the love he gave so freely, and the memories we will carry with us always.

A Memorial Visition will be held at the R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Home, 15451 Farmington Rd., Livonia, Sunday, December 7, 2025 from 1:00 - 4:00 PM.

Please share a memory of Jeff by signing his Guestbook.