Mr. Richard "Dick" Valente

Mr. Richard “Dick” Valente, age 77, passed away on Thursday, April 28, 2016 in the comfort of his home. Born in Utica on March 6, 1939, Richard was the son of the late Biase John and Fannie (Testa) Valente. He was raised and educated in Utica. A proud veteran, Dick honorably served his country from March 6, 1956 to February 17, 1958 in the United States Marine Corps and proudly retired from the Army Reserves in 1999. He was married to the former Sandra D. Nicholas. Dick was employed by the City of Utica/Department of Public Works as a mechanic, driver, and welder, under the administrations of Mayors Pawlinga, LaPolla, and Hanna, retiring in 1999. He also worked for the New York State Department of Transportation as a member of the bridge crew and tree crew on the Barge Canal and Alder Creek. Dick worked hard and was dependable at whatever job he was assigned. He was an avid gardener and baker, and was fond of meeting family and friends for breakfast. During his leisure time, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle with his buddies, participating in many motorcycle benefit rides. Richard is survived by his wife, Sandra; his daughters and son-in-law, Randie and Brian Schrader, Tabitha Cook, and Patricia Valente. He treasured in his heart the memories of his daughters, Corinna, and Babette, who preceded him in death. He also leaves his son and daughter-in-law, Richard and Sue Valente; his 12 grandchildren whom he loved dearly; and several great-grandchildren. He will also be remembered by his sisters, Mary Lou Olivadoti, Janet Weed, Diana Gerace, and Shirley Louise Moore; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald and Sarah Valente, Charles and Janice Coakley, Robert “Bob” Valente, and Jon and Rosemary Valente; his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws. He was predeceased by his brother, Johnny Lee Adkins; nephew, Keith Valente; and sister-in-law, Patricia Valente. In keeping with Richard's wishes, there will be no services. Those wishing to express an act of kindness in his honor may make a donation to the Wounded Warrior Foundation online at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org. His funeral service and Inurnment will take place privately in Saratoga National Cemetery.

Mr. Richard "Dick" Valente

March 6, 1939 - April 28, 2016