It is with heavy hearts that the family of Troy Lynn Malson, of Peoria, Illinois, announces his unexpected passing on Monday, August 10, 2026, at the age of 59.

Troy was born on October 15, 1966, and was a lifelong Peoria resident. He grew up on Middle Road near Bartonville and attended Limestone High School, graduating in 1985. He later attended Illinois Central College and Truck Driving School in Indianapolis, IN. He was an over-the-road truck driver for most of his career, working for 25 years at Risinger Bros. Transfer in Morton, Illinois, and most recently for Air-Land Transport Service, Inc., also in Morton.

Troy was such a warm and loving person who truly cherished his family, especially his two children. He found joy in listening to classic rock and creating mix tapes, sharing these small pleasures with others. He loved spending time outdoors, whether fishing or birdwatching in his backyard, and enjoyed cozy Friday-night movies with his kids when they visited, picking them together with a smile. Troy took pride in working with his hands, especially in fixing and tinkering with old lawn mowers, which showed his resourcefulness. He was also a wonderful friend to many, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Troy was warmly remembered as a beloved family man. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard “Dick” Malson, and leaves behind a loving family including his wife, Millie, and his children, Holly and Benjamin, from his first marriage to Heather Richey Goossens. Coming from a large, close-knit family, his mother, Donna Stephens Malson, still cherishes his memory, along with his siblings, Diane Bentley, Rick (Connie) Malson, David Malson, and Ron Malson. Many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family and friends also hold a special place in his heart and will miss him dearly.

Troy touched the hearts of many who loved him, and he will be greatly missed. We’re especially proud of him for learning fluent Spanish to connect with his wife, Millie. He was a funny, caring, and wonderful man whose presence made a positive difference in this world.

Troy's life was deeply rooted in the community he loved, having grown up attending Bartonville Christian Church and choosing to be baptized at Little Galilee Christian Camp. Cremation has been arranged, and a service will be held to honor his memory at 4 pm on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Bartonville Christian Church. There will be no visitation. Affordable Funeral & Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.