Susan Diane Malenke, age 74, of Hot Springs, SD, passed away Saturday, June 8, 2019 at her apartment at the Evans in Hot Springs.

Susan was born in Rapid City, SD, on December 14, 1944, to John 'Jack' and Helen (Yoast) Davis. She attended school in Hot Springs. In 1967, Susan attended St. Joseph's School of Practical Nursing in Mitchell, SD obtaining her LPN Diploma Certificate. In 1984, she attended Rapid City Regional Hospital School of Nursing obtaining her diploma as a Registered Nurse. In 1988, Susan attended SD State University Brookings and obtaining her BS Nursing.   She began her 46 year nursing career as a nursing assistant, advancing to LPN, Staff RN, Nursing Supervisor and Interim Director of Nursing, before returning to nursing at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center until her retirement in 2009.  Susan was employed by Southern Hills General Hospital, Castle Manor Nursing Home and the Hot Springs Veterans Affairs Medical Center .   Susan maintained lifelong friendships with her fellow nurses, Abby Nagel; Sarah Flesher; Alverna 'Quint' Kopsky and Lyle Witt.

Susan was a life member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing cards (Cribbage/Canasta), spent many hours crocheting but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family.  During her life Susan was a friend of many and a friend to all.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Jack Davis and Helen Jung; son, Michael Malenke; and sister, Priscilla Dingler.

Susan is survived by her sons, Marvin Malenke; Martin (Shana Cuny) Malenke; brothers, John (Eleanor) Davis and Gale (Sue) Davis; sisters, Mary Helen Alexander; Liz Coyle; Ann (Jim) Zwetzig; grandchildren, Mark, Lisa, India, and one great grandchild, Oaklynn.

Visitation will be held 1:00 p.m., Saturday, June 15, 2019, at Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs, SD.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 15, 2019, at Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs. Committal services will follow at the Evergreen Cemetery in Hot Springs, SD.

Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs.