Albert P. Palenske

Albert P. Palenske, 56, of Topeka, died November 8, 2013 at St. Francis Hospital. He was born in Topeka, Kansas on July 24, 1957 the son of Melvin "Buster" and Lillian Mae (Bodell) Palenske. Albert received his Bachelor's degree from Washburn University. He was a cement mason for 20 years before he became a "professional" truck driver for Shawnee County Refuse Department. He enjoyed spending time with his family, attending sporting events and participating in various outdoor activities. He loved NASCAR and attending Heartland Park drag races. He always said "when you're racing you don't need brakes." But what he treasured the most in life were his sons. Albert married Mary Vaughn in Topeka in 1988. They later divorced. He is survived by two sons, Nickolas and Dylan both of Topeka, two brothers, Tom Palenske of Osage City and Fred Palenske (Pam) of Auburn, and a sister, Pat Gros of Topeka. He was preceded in death by his parents. Albert will lie in state at the Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home on Wednesday after 2:00 p.m. where the family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. A Parish Rosary will be prayed at 5:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church. He will lie in state an hour prior to the service at church. Cremation will follow the funeral mass. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association and sent in care of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, Kansas 66603. Online condolences and fond memories may be left at www.brennanmathenafh.com.