Obituary of Albert "Big Al" Valenze
VALENZE, Albert M.
Passed away peacefully on Sunday August 5, 2018 at the Sayre Health Center, Sayre, PA. He was predeceased by his parents Dominic J. and Loretta A. (Trengo) Valenze and brother-in-law William Patrick Carroll, several aunts, uncles and cousins. He is survived by his sisters Diana M. Carroll and Nancy A. Diello (Terry M. Coughlin), and numerous friends. Big Al was born in Lake Placid, NY on July 14, 1950. He enjoyed ice hockey, bobsledding, and hunting and fishing with his dad. After the death of his father, he moved to Elmira in 1963. He graduated from Elmira Free Academy in 1968, Alfred Tech in 1970 and Alfred University in 1972. He then worked for Urban Renewal (HUD). His longtime dream of owning his own bar came to fruition in 1981 when he opened The Brass Ring on West Water St. in Elmira. There many lifelong friendships were developed, marriages and divorces forged and births orchestrated. While trying to get rid of his sisters he could be heard to say “Get a job” and “hit the road”, but his favorite saying of all--“Wasn’t that a party!” Family and friends are invited to visit Walter J. Kent Funeral Home, 858 Lake St. at Washington Ave., Elmira on Thursday, August 9th from 1 to 3 pm and 5 to 7 pm. His Memorial Mass will be held Friday, August 10th at 10 am in Ss. Peter & Paul Church, St. Joseph’s Way (E. Market St.) Elmira. Rev. John DeSocio Celebrant. Those wishing may remember Al through memorial contributions to the Elmira PBA, 317 E Church St, Elmira, NY 14901 or the Harry B. Bentley Post #443 American Legion, 316 Lake St, Elmira, NY 14901.