Desirae C. "Rae" Valenzano

Desirae C. “Rae” Valenzano, age 44, of Whitesboro, passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2016. Born in New Hartford on July 24, 1971, Desirae was the daughter of Judith (Riley) Valenzano-Ritzel and the late Donald A. Valenzano. She attended and graduated from New Hartford schools. She furthered her education at the Utica School of Commerce where she graduated with honors. Desirae was employed by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in Oriskany for many years. Her superb hand-eye coordination, and amazing photographic memory enhanced her life and career. Desirae was charming, witty, and non-judgmental. She was a compassionate soul who would do anything for someone in need. She also had a passion and an open heart for all animals. She rescued cats, often taking them to her own home, and at one time, she was a mom to 12 fortunate felines; she truly was a “cat whisperer”. Desirae respected all of God’s creatures, and when necessary, escorted them to a safe sanctuary. A trusting and fun-loving aunt, Desirae had a close relationship with her nieces and nephews and she loved spending time with them. Being together with her family was always a grand time for her. She was proud of both her Italian and Irish heritages. She also enjoyed trips to the casino with her sister. As a New York Yankee aficionado, she was keenly aware of their stats and watched their games religiously. Desirae enjoyed the drama and exhilaration of NASCAR, and Martin Truex, Jr. was her favorite driver. Desirae truly loved and admired her dad, and through the years, from him, she developed a fascination for classic cars. Desirae is survived by her mother, Judith and her husband Ronald Ritzel. She held close the memory of her cherished dad and best friend with whom she is now reunited. And although she leaves behind her beloved sisters, Jacqueline “Gi”, Franci, and Donata, she takes with her the beautiful bond that blessed them. She will also be missed by her nieces and nephews, Nicole, and Matthew; Jordan, and Anthony; her great-nephew, Ryan; her aunts, Joan Irvin, Barbara Riley, and Vita Busa; and many cousins. She was also favored with many wonderful friends. She was predeceased by her maternal and paternal grandparents. The family will honor and commemorate Desirae’s life at a private time. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday afternoon at 2:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where her Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in lieu of flowers may consider a donation to the Wanderers Rest Humane Association, Inc. pet rescue and shelter online at http://wanderersrest.org or the American Heart Association at https://donatenow.heart.org; envelopes will be available at the service.

Desirae C. "Rae" Valenzano

July 24, 1971 - April 20, 2016