Stephen Valentine

VALENTINE, Stephen passed away at home after a long illness on March 22, 2016 at the age of 64.

Born in 1951 in Toronto, and raised in Île-à-la-Crosse, SK and Ottawa, Steve attended Brookfield High School until 1969, after which he earned a BA in Arts from Carleton University, graduating in 1973.

Steve began his career in the Public Service at the age of 23 and early-on he was recognized as being a talented policy analyst with a unique and creative mind that he brought to bear on a variety of files and initiatives over his 28 year career.

He had many passions, including jazz and blues, vintage guitars, cars and watches, motorcycles, visual art, nature, geo-politics, history and literature. His unbridled curiosity and rich sense of wonder meant he was always learning about the world around us and eager to share his singular insights with those around him.

Steve was a fixture on the Ottawa music scene for 50 years, both in the clubs and music stores where his deep knowledge and experience in the craft helped many dozens of artists find their way over the years.

Steve is predeceased by his mother Mary (1994), his father Victor (2014), and his brother Anthony (2007). He is survived by his brother John (Mary) and Sister, Mary Ann, and seven nieces and nephews: Thomas (Tamara), Michael (Sabrina) Melissa (Ian), James (Calee), Angelia, Richard and grandnephew Patrick.

He will also be dearly missed by his godson Booker Sim, as well as countless friends and colleagues.

There will be a celebration of Stephen's life on Friday, April 22 at the Brookfield Restaurant, 704 Brookfield Road from 4:00-7:00 pm. All friends and family are welcome to attend.