Malcolm R. von der Heyde

Malcolm Raymond von der Heyde, 76, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, in Boston, Massachusetts.

Born on September 12, 1949, in London, England, Malcolm’s early life was marked by rich cultural experiences and international roots. He spent his formative years in Dulwich, a charming town south of London, before moving with his family to a farm outside Hamburg, Germany. There, he was raised for the first six years of his life, surrounded by nature and the rhythms of rural life. When the family immigrated to the United States in the 1950s arriving in a propeller plane, Malcolm spoke only German. His first days at school in third grade were memorable not only for the language barrier but also for his traditional lederhosen attire!

Malcolm became a naturalized U.S. citizen on February 16, 1967, and just nine months later, he volunteered to serve in the United States Army. He entered active duty on November 27, 1967, and served with distinction, as a Personnel Specialist serving three tours in Vietnam: the UN Counter Offensive Phase III, the TET 69 Counter Offensive, and an Unnamed Special Forces Campaign. He rose to the rank of Sergeant E-5 before completing his service. His commitment to the United States was unwavering and deeply respected.

Upon returning from military service, Malcolm transitioned into civilian life with resilience and ambition. He became a beloved voice on WRKO AM talk radio in Boston, where his distinctive "radio voice" made him a fan favorite among listeners. His career path was diverse and dynamic - He held prestigious roles with companies such as Fannie Farmer Candies, Carter's children's clothing, and Fotomat. He then went on and attended The Lee Institute in Norwood, Massachusetts, where he earned his commercial and residential real estate license. Malcolm’s entrepreneurial spirit eventually led him to establish Northeast Properties and Development Corporation. Later in life, he ventured into the automotive industry where he found continued success through his sharp business acumen and personable nature and developed long lasting friendships.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Malcolm was a man of many passions. He found joy in flying, a testament to his adventurous spirit. He loved the ocean and spent countless hours simply enjoying its calming presence or fishing. A devoted gardener and meticulous landscaper, he found peace working with nature. Animals gravitated to him, particularly his beloved cat, Fluffy. Malcolm also had a deep appreciation for literature and often turned to reading and writing poetry during quiet moments of reflection.

Malcolm’s creativity extended into woodworking and design. One of his proudest projects was building an imaginative playroom for his children in the basement of their home in Wayland, Massachusetts, a space that became the heart of many joyful birthday parties, Halloween celebrations, Christmas gatherings, and piñata festivities shared with Julie and Michael's classmates, friends and family.

He was deeply involved in his children's lives, coaching Michael’s baseball team, traveling to hockey practices and games; and supporting Julie’s swim meets with enthusiasm and pride. His presence was steady and supportive; he offered guidance not through loud declarations but through quiet strength.

He is lovingly remembered by his former wife of over 22 years, Nancy Diane Follansbee; daughter Julie Elisabeth von der Heyde; son Michael-Christian von der Heyde; granddaughter Lillian Rose; grandsons Christian and Francis “Frankie”; as well as those who knew him throughout his remarkable journey. He was predeceased by his mother Ingeborg Peterson; Father Dereck Johnson; and stepfather Otto von der Heyde.

A man of quiet dignity and kind-heartedness, Malcolm touched many lives with his calm demeanor and thoughtful presence. His legacy lives on through the memories shared by family and friends who were fortunate enough to know him.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and peace to all who carry forward his story.

Relatives and friends are welcome to attend Committal Services with Military Honors on Wednesday, November 19th, 2025, at 1:00pm, directly at Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 301 South County Trail in Exeter, RI. Arrangements are entrusted to William W. Tripp Funeral Home, Pawtucket, RI. www.TrippFuneralHome.com