Frank Valenta, 93

Frank Valenta died peacefully on June 6, 2011 in Poulsbo, Washington at Martha and Mary nursing home.  He was born in Manhattan, NY in 1917 to his Czech parents, Frank and Barbara.  He attended Stuyvesant High School, which is a premier school for education in science, mathematics, and technology, open only to those who pass an examination.  He also attended a Czech sokel, which was a school for gymnastics and learning the Czech language.  He was always good-natured as a youth, and his friends called him “Smiley.”

He played semi-pro baseball for one season with the Durham Bulls.  He played 2nd base and outfield.  He loved to coach young people to learn how to play.  The pee-wee team that he coached with his two sons had a 17-3 record.

Frank studied chemical engineering at New York University.  He worked at Tiffany’s in New York, Fruehauf Trailer Corp. as an accountant, and the Washington State Highway Department as a parts specialist.

Frank loved the Lord Jesus Christ.  He helped to build the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church in Cle Elum, WA. 

He is survived by his wife, Helen; his two sons, Frank T. Valenta (wife Kelly) of McAllen, TX and Christopher G. Valenta (wife Debbie) of Poulsbo, WA; his sister Teresa Kosina (husband Joe) of Richield Springs, NY; his four grandchildren, Brad, of Las Vegas, NV; Benjamin, deployed with the Navy out of Mayport, FL ; and Nichole (husband Tony), and Rebekah of McAllen TX; as well as three great-grandchildren:  Ariana, Aiden, and Bella.  He is also survived by one niece and six nephews. 

Many thanks to the Courtyard at Crista Shores, Harrison Hospital 2 West and Martha and Mary nursing home for the loving care they gave to Frank in his illness.  We also appreciate Dave Rasmussen Of Tuell-McKee funeral home for his help in our time of need.

Frank’s remains will be laid to rest at the Tahoma National Cemetery in honor of his service to our country.

Spanem Bohem

(a Czech blessing that Frank always said which means “God is with you”.)

When I Must Leave You

by Helen Steiner Rice

When I must leave you

For a little while-

Please do not grieve

And shed wild tears

And hug your sorrow to you

Through the years.

But start out bravely

With a gallant smile;

And for my sake

And for my name

Live on and do

All things the same.

Feed not your loneliness

On empty days,

But fill each waking hour

In useful ways.

Reach out your hand

In comfort and in cheer,

And I in turn will comfort you

And hold you near;

And never, never

Be afraid to die.

For I am waiting for you in the sky!