10 Questions with Wanda Maloney

After 55 years in food service at Falmouth Hospital, she’s still serving up dedication and hard work—with a side of humor. 

This August marks an extraordinary milestone: Wanda Maloney is celebrating 55 years in the food service department at Falmouth Hospital. She began her career in 1970, working evenings after school and earning $5 an hour. Since then, she’s been a cook, worked in production, helped on the patient floors, and has become a beloved, unforgettable part of the hospital community. 

“I love the people. I love the patients. I really do,” says Wanda, who was born and raised in Falmouth. Her humor, saltiness and honesty are unmatched. “I tell it like it is,” she says with a grin. Her signature line, “I’m old, but I’m not dead!” still gets a laugh every time. 

Even after more than five decades, Wanda still shows up and gives it her all: “I put forth 100 percent every time.”  

Currently working 32 hours a week delivering trays to patients, she’s a shining example of commitment, compassion and Cape Cod grit.

Over the years, she’s earned watches and plaques in recognition of her service, but now she has her eye on a smoker for her next gift. We recently caught up with Wanda to learn more about her career journey, something people might not know about her and her most prized possession. 

Wanda Maloney and John Pestana, executive chef at Falmouth Hospital.

1. What do you remember about your very first job here?

I wasn’t even 20 yet. I used to come in after school. I was running track and working. They offered me $5 an hour — and I took it! I started full-time after I graduated.

2. What roles have you worked in over the years?

I cooked for 47 years. I worked in production, too. Now I work 32 hours a week delivering trays to patients, which I like. I enjoy being around people and interacting. You have to care about people to do this work. You can’t fake it.

3. What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

My mom, Fern, worked as a dietician at Falmouth Hospital for more than 30 years.

4. Best advice for a young person just starting out?

Show up. Be on time. Do your job. That’s all you need to do. 

5. How would your coworkers describe you in three words:

Honest, funny and I tell it like it is. You either love me or hate me.

6. What is your biggest accomplishment?

Having my son, George, who now works for Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

7. What’s your favorite thing to eat or make?

I love seafood. Oysters especially. I also like scallops baked in the oven with the Ritz crackers on top.

8. A kitchen tool or gadget you can’t live without?

A high-quality sharp knife.

9. Anything on the horizon you are most excited about? 

Going on a staycation with friends and family at the end of the month. We are planning on going on a whale watch out of Hyannis.

10. Your most prized possession? 

My four-year-old Goldendoodle, Fiona.