Guilford, Connecticut
Joseph Walter Valaitis, 68, of Guilford, passed away Sunday, October 5, 2008 surrounded by his family. He was born in New Haven to the late Mary and Joseph Valaitis. Joe served in the National Guard from 1956 to 1963 and graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with honors and a degree in Science and Engineering. He married Barbara Van Der Maelen on June 9, 1962, and they had three children together, Mark Valaitis, of Hales Corner, Wisconsin, Brian Valaitis of Guilford and Anne Spaziante of Brookfield, Connecticut.
Joe loved to travel to many locations that covered the globe. However, no matter how far Joe traveled, he was his happiest when he was with his wife, children and their families. He put together a yearly trip for the children and grandchildren in Cape Cod every year. He shared his love of the beach and ocean with his family and took so much pleasure in watching everyone enjoy their time together.
Besides his wife and children, he leaves his siblings, Helen Butkiewicz, Mary Morris and Edward Kozolis. Joe’s beloved grandchildren, Amanda, Alex, Brett, Keira, Austin, and Michael will miss him more than words can say.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. George Church, 33 Whitfield St, Guilford on Friday. October 10, 2008 at 10am. Burial will follow in Alder brook cemetery, Boston St, Guilford. Friends may call Thursday, Oct. 9 from 4 – 7 pm at the Guilford Funeral home, 115 Church St, Guilford. Contributions in Mr. Valaitis’ memory may be made to Action to Cure Kidney Cancer, (ACKC), 150 West 75 St., Suite # 246, New York, NY 10023.
www.GuilfordFuneralHome.com
While I only worked with Joe I learned from him just how much he loved his family. In fact, after my father passed away, Joe becoame like a father to me. He spoke fondly of his entire family. You are in my thoughts and prayers
Keith Carter
October 13, 2008 | Jonesborough, TN
Sincerest sympathy to the entire Valaitis family. Years age at the Armstrong Rubber Co. I worked with Joe and will always have fond memories. Rest in Peace Joe. Your friend Lou.
Louis Spinato
October 08, 2008
I met Joe through our business association and we became fast friends. We will miss "Big Joe from Conn. My deepest sympathies at this time of loss. God Bless
Carl Miller
October 08, 2008 | Knoxville
My condolences. My heart goes out to your entire family and friends that that held Joseph near and dear to their hearts.
May you find peace with time and God Bless.
Georgia MacDonald
October 07, 2008 | Norton, MA
To my dear friend Brian and to Mark and Annie - to all the grandchildren and a heartfelt prayer for Barbara -
Words cannot express my sorrow for your family in this time of loss. ..My Prayers are with you all.
Christine
October 06, 2008 | Guilford, CT
You are all in my thoughts, and prayers. I enjoyed working with Joe, and have many fond memories. You can be very proud of him, and the contributions he made to the Tire Industry. He has been a tremendous help to Polymer Industrial over the years. I considered him a true friend.
Jim Ireland
October 06, 2008 | Bluff City, TN
