Peter J. Valenti
Passed away peacefully due to complications with pulmonary fibrosis and heart disease on October 13, 2015 surrounded by family and friends, at the age of 78. Pete was born in Kansas City, MO to his parents Lawrence and Charlotte (Talent) Valenti. He moved with his family to Redwood City as a young child. He spent his life in the Menlo Park area, attending Bellarmine Preparatory School and finally receiving his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Menlo College in 1955. Pete also served in the California National Guard for 6 years, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant and FDC Chief.
Pete spent more than 40 years working at SRI International in various accounting positions and ultimately as the Corporate Controller. Pete loved his job at SRI and was so proud of the work that they did there. He formed many friendships there which continued into his retirement. He also served on the board of the SRI Federal Credit Union and Alumni Association.
Anyone who knew Pete, knew he was a sports fan and more specifically, an avid 49ers fan. Pete was a 49er season ticket holder for more than 60 years and enjoyed meeting many of the players and coaches. He was also often offering game analysis to anyone who would listen. Pete loved music, particularly the sounds of the big bands. He himself played saxophone and clarinet in a band during his high school and college years.
Pete was married to Mary Margaret (Midge) Otto Valenti for 39 years, before her passing. He then married Diane Morey in 2012. Pete is survived by his wife Diane (Morey), sister Beverly Valenti Hilliard, brother-in-law Gerry Hilliard, niece Amy Rich (Jon) and their children Lucas and Lyla, nephew Peter Hilliard and his children Andrew and Allison, and stepdaughters Marisa, Julie and Jana (Steve) and their children Dylan and Justin.
Pete was a dedicated member of St. Denis parish for many years. Mass will be held Monday, October 19th at 10:30 am. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.