Grief for Valerie Bartalone: ​​A loving soul leaves us

Grief for Valerie Bartalone: ​​A loving soul leaves us

St. Joseph, MI, USA - On July 1, 2025, the city of Benton Harbor remains grief for a loved one: Valerie Bartalone, also known as Val, left us on June 26 at the age of 74. Her roots go deep into the region, born in Benton Harbor as daughter of Robert and Ruth Lockwitz, she left many traces.

Val graduated from the Benton Harbor High School in 1968 and soon found the love of her life. On October 10, 1970, she married Anthony Bartalone, with whom she led a fulfilling life. Known for her hospitality, she created a retreat for family and friends with a warm, inviting home. Her this place was often the Seehaus, where she relaxed, spent time with her dog Cosmo and gained numerous beautiful memories with her loved ones.

a life in love and passion

with a pronounced passion for gardening and trying out new recipes, Valerie was not only a loving housewife, but also a talented cook. They lovingly called their grandchildren "Nana", which underlines their close bond with the younger generation.

Your family will think of her beyond personal mourning. In addition to her husband Anthony Bartalone, she leaves her father Robert Lockwitz, her brothers Gary and Kevin, as well as her daughters Amber and Janna. Valerie will also remain in lively memory by several nieces and nephews as well as their grandchildren Nathan, Marisa, Andrew, Jacob and Matthew.

last honor and memory

The funeral service for Valerie Bartalone will take place on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in Starks & Menchinger Chapel in St. Joseph, followed by a celebration of her life at 12:00 p.m. Deacon Ed Nickel will lead the ceremony. The funeral takes place in a private framework on the North Shore Memory Garden in Coloma. If you want, you have the opportunity to donate to the American Cancer Society in Valerie's name.

These tragic news does not come alone; In 2023, the Bartalone family already lost Loretta Jean Bartalone, who died on March 1 at the age of 92. Loretta, who also came from Benton Harbor, worked as a hairdresser for over two decades and touched many people with their positive way. Her funeral service took place, like Val’s, in the Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home, and she was also buried on the North Shore Memory Garden. They will always remember their numerous grandchildren and great -grandchildren.

Family stories preserve

In times like these, holding out of family stories is particularly valuable. Just as Mr. Schulze plans his family research to document his roots and connections, the Bartalone family members can also use their memories to keep the legacy of Valerie and Loretta alive. Digital archives offer a great way to maintain family history and to strengthen the connections between the generations.

The online signature for Valerie's memorial book is available at www.starks-menginger.com where friends and family can leave grief expressions.