ORANGE, Ca. – Long time lighting industry veteran Charlie Malings passed away Thursday August 20th, in Orange, California. He had had problems with congestive heart failure recently, after having battled heart disease over many years. His larger than life heart has come to rest.
Originally from the Rockaway area of Queens, NY, Malings had lived in California for much of his adult life. Employed as a salesman and account manager at Morpheus Lights in the late 80’s, many in the business referred to him as Mr. Color Fader as he led that technology into the 90’s.
Over time Malings started up Middle Man Productions in Southern Cal. He owned lighting gear that he rented out to others doing shows, but he found his real forte was in sourcing the exact gear an LD required for any project. If a company was short 60 Varilites and there seemed to be none available west of the Mississippi, Charlie would find it for you. He was selfless with his time and would work late nights to help his clients in any way possible.
The last eight years found Charlie at home with Felix Lighting as an account exec. He was thrilled to work with others who shared his passion and the home he had found there. He was recently referred to as “Everyone’s favorite pain in the ass.” with great affection from all.
Malings shared his loved of all genres of music with everyone. Charlie showed up at many concerts often, often just to say hi to the designers he knew, but he would stick around for the show and the music. He was a guitar player as well dating back to high school.
Malings will always be a legend in our business and his loss will be mourned by countless friends and his road family. He is survived by his son Benjy Malings and daughter Cassie Eick.
More details will be added here as we receive them.
