James E. Valerio, 86 years, of LaSalle, Michigan, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at 12 noon at Ebeid Hospice in Sylvania, OH surrounded by his loving family.
Born February 3, 1931 in LaSalle, Jim was the son of the late Albert and Julia A. (Grams) Valerio, Sr. He attended Monroe High School.
Jim served his country honorably and proudly in the United States Army from 1951 to 1953. He spent most of his tour of duty in Panama.
On September 16, 1950 Jim married his beloved wife, the former Margaret D. Harmon in Monroe. Sadly, she preceded him in death on March 14, 2004 after 53 years of marriage.
Jim was employed as a designer for AP Auto Parts in Toledo, OH for 33 years. He retired in 1986.
Jim enjoyed yard work, deer hunting, fishing and trips to the casino. His favorite was Greektown Casino, but he also enjoyed the casinos in Las Vegas. Most of all Jim enjoyed time spent with family.
Jim is survived by three loving children: Julie A. (Ronald E.) Hills of LaSalle, James M. (Anne) Valerio of LaSalle, and Anthony J. (Janice) Valerio of Monroe, nine cherished grandchildren: Nathan, Justin B., Andy, Amber, Brook, Justin W., Ashley, Alexander, and Jennifer, six treasured great grandchildren and two sisters: Arlene Francisco of Monroe and Betty (Pete) Lucio of Pointe Place, Toledo, OH, a son in law: Mark Manor of Monroe and a sister in law: Donna Valerio of Sylvania, OH.
In addition to his wife and parents, Jim was preceded in death by a daughter Linda Manor, a granddaughter Julie Manor, two brothers and two sisters.
Visitation will be held on Friday from 10:00 AM at the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., Monroe, MI, 48161, until funeral services celebrating his life at 1:30 PM. The Rev. Roy Southerland, pastor of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church, will officiate.
Interment will follow at LaSalle Township Cemetery, where the VFW Post 1138 will conduct military honors.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Ebeid Hospice in Sylvania.