It is with great sorrow that we announce the death of our beloved “Dr. Al.” Just a few days before Christmas, our long-time Board member passed away at the very young age of 94. He is survived by Patricia, his wife of 37 years, and by his adult children, Nancy, Wendy and Peter. He was pre-deceased by his son, Scott.
Born in a small southern Illinois town, Allen moved with his family to Chicago when he was 14. He graduated from the University of Illinois College of Medicine and interned at Cook County Hospital. He practiced medicine in the Chicago area for 35 years and taught at Chicago Medical School and at Loyola University’s School of Medicine.
After moving to Bonita Springs some 25 years ago, Dr. Al joined the Center for Critical Thinking in its earliest days and served on both the Active and Emeritus Boards. He gave many fascinating lectures to CCT audiences on a range of medical topics, including end-of-life issues, quack medicine, stem cell research and personalized medicine. Allen was especially proud of his two published books: Hitler’s Silver Box, a historical thriller, and Always on Call, a memoir. He was also a skilled raconteur, a storyteller of great renown, and a man never without a twinkle in his eye.
Dr. Allen Malnak was a great physician, husband, father, and author. He was a major contributor to the growth of the Center for Critical Thinking and, via the CCT, to the intellectual life of Naples and Southwest Florida. We are proud and grateful that Dr. Al chose to bless the CCT with his knowledge, friendship, and wit. He will be deeply missed.