Laszlo Valentyik

Houghton

Dr. Laszlo Valentyik, 87, a resident of Houghton passed away Friday, October 28, 2022.

He was born on September 13, 1935, in Budapest, Hungary, son of Laszlo and Erzsebet Valentyik. Laszlo
grew up in Budapest during World War II and the post-war years, and enjoyed academics, sports, and
working on cars/trucks and all things mechanical. He was especially interested in table tennis and
achieved the title as Hungarian National Table Tennis Champion. Laszlo escaped from Hungary during
the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and immigrated to the United Kingdom.

He graduated with a Doctorate in Mining Engineering from Nottingham University and worked as an
engineer for the UK government. In 1967 Dr. Valentyik accepted a position with Michigan Technological
University (MTU) as a professor in the Mining Engineering Department teaching and conducting
research. In 1981 he collaborated and shared receipt of the Neil Rice award at MTU for the research
publication, “Production and Evaluation of Lignite Pellets”.

In 1982 Dr. Valentyik married Louise Helene Fortin, from Quebec, Canada. They lived in Houghton and
were active members of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church. In March of 2007, Helene preceded Laszlo
in death following a battle with breast cancer.

Laszlo was perpetually optimistic, friendly, and immensely enjoyed connecting with people in his
community. He loved gardening, winemaking, fixing vehicles, traveling and staying physically active. His
intense desire for continual learning was evident in every aspect of his life including learning several
languages such as French, German, English, Russian, and completing multiple educational certificates
beyond his PhD.

He is survived by his two children Terez Valentyik (Ted) Grady and Peter Valentyik; grandchildren Ryan,
Jonathan, and Sarah Grady.

Laszlo’s family plans to gather for an informal remembrance in the Alumnae Room A in the Memorial
Union on the campus of MTU on Saturday, May 20 th at 4:30 pm. All are welcome to stop by to share a
story or memory of Laszlo with immediate family.

 

To view Laszlo's obituary or to send Condolences please visit  www.memorialchapel.net

 

The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service - Hancock Chapel has assisted the family with arrangements.