SPRINGFIELD, IL - Daniel S. Malensky, 65, died peacefully at home on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2015.

Dan was born Nov. 22, 1949, in Springfield, the son of Emil P. "Mick" and Betty Malensky.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mick and Betty; and brother, Tim.

He is survived by his best feline friend and loving daughter/companion of 16 years, Lucky (aka "The Kid"), his three-legged cat; and his best friend and longtime companion, Kay Rees. Also surviving are a brother, Mike (wife, Chris) of Boise, Idaho; a sister, Val Hedgepath (companion, Dave Caillier) of Springfield; and several nieces and nephews.

He was a 1967 graduate of Lanphier High School. He married Charlene Hamilton in 1970 in Springfield; they later divorced.

During the Vietnam War, he was in the U.S. Air Force and the Illinois Air National Guard. He was an Air Technician with the 183TFG and Aircraft Maintenance Analyst Supervisor from 1968-1975. He was a contractor/home builder for 40 years.

Cremation will be accorded.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2015, at Ellinger-Kunz & Park Funeral Home.

Burial will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to: The Animal Protective League.

Ellinger-Kunz & Park Funeral Home, 530 N. 5th St., Springfield, IL 62702 is in charge of arrangements. Visit our online obituary at www.ellingerkunzfuneralhome.com.