Obituary of Gerald W. Valek

GERALD W. VALEK Latham- Gerald W. "Jerry" Valek, 68 of Latham, beloved husband of Bonita M. "Bonnie Miller, died Tuesday March 24, 2015 at his home in Latham. Born in Albany, he was the son of the late Joseph and Mary (Malatesta) Valek. Jerry married his beloved Bonita M. "Bonnie" Miller on August 8, 1970 and the two have shared a blessed marriage of 45 years. He graduated from Cardinal McClosky High School and Hudson Valley Community with a degree in Criminal Justice. He was a Senior Radio Dispatcher employed by the New York State Thruway for over 30 years where he was affectionately referred to as "Pal" and he retired in 2002. Jerry and his wife resided in Guilderland for over 30 years moving to Latham last year. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing and gardening. Jerry was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and had a great love of flying. Survivors in addition to his wife include his loving daughter Julie (Scott) Baker of Latham. He was the best "Pipa" to Makenzie and Madison Baker of Latham, and brother of Jeanne Healy, Grace LaPlante, James Valek, Richard Valek and Mary Valek. Jerry was also survived by his puppies Bailey and Bella and many loving brother and sister in laws and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his Brother , Joe Valek A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday March 28, 2015 at 10:00 am in Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 498 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham with Rev. Geoffrey Burke officiating. Relatives and friends are invited and may call Saturday morning March 28, 2015 from 8:30 a.m. til 9:30 a.m. at the Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Road, Latham. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery in Menands. Contributions to the American Heart Association 440 New Karner Rd. Albany, NY 12205 or the Little Sisters of the Poor Attn: Sr. Francis 1365 Enfield St., Enfield CT 06082-4925 For directions, information or to light a memory candle for the family please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.