Obituary published on Legacy.com by Justen Funeral Home & Crematory - McHenry on Oct. 1, 2025.
Valentino Joseph Pariso, whose warm smile and gentle spirit touched countless lives, passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on December 12, 1931,
Valentino embraced life with a radiant kindness and quiet grace that left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
From his earliest days, Valentino showed a tender creativity. Whether it was cross-stitching intricate patterns, sewing beautiful clothes for his children and grandchildren, or fashioning habits for local nuns, his hands worked tirelessly and lovingly. His vibrant gardens, especially his exquisite roses, blossomed each year as vibrant testaments to his care and dedication.
Valentino proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army during the Korean War, a time that profoundly shaped his commitment to service and deep appreciation for peace. After his military service, he cultivated his creative flair as a hairstylist, transforming not just appearances but also the days of his many devoted clients.
Nothing gave Valentino greater joy than family gatherings, especially at Christmas when he meticulously decorated his home and delighted everyone with his famous homemade spaghetti sauce-a cherished recipe passed down from Italy. Summers brought adventures at favorite campgrounds near Antioch, creating memories that would warm family hearts for generations.
Valentino leaves behind a legacy of unwavering kindness, gentle strength, and perpetual optimism. He is survived by his beloved children: Tricia (Michael Sr.) Anderson, Kimberly Pariso Skovran, Valerie Tocco, Joseph (Cindy) Pariso, and Opal; his cherished grandchildren: Christina (John) Lynos, Richard (Kat) Mertz, Beth (Reed) Dalseth, Candice (Frank) Matelski-Brady, Teena Ramsden, Christina (Jason) Downey, Michael (Nicole) Anderson, Emily (Jonathan) Anderson, Zachary (Kaylee) Anderson, Rebecca Anderson, Jacob Pariso, Kevin Piotrowicz, Bryan Piotrowicz, Abigail Piotrowicz, Justin Tocco, Joshua Tocco, Valentino "Tino" Pariso, and Liliana "Lilly" Pariso; and his adored great-grandchildren: Vinny, Lilli, Jaycee, Kanaan, Carter, Annabel, Nevaeh, Giovanni, Ava, Olivia, Avery, Sophia, Gianna, Jacob Jr., Jaxton, Aliyah, Destiny (Brendon), Sam., and Katie, Riki, Liam, Zylan, Raylan, Bella, Nathaniel Jr, Jonathan, Bengiman, all of whom will carry forward his beautiful legacy.
Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate Valentino's remarkable life at a visitation on Sunday, July 27, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, followed immediately by a funeral service at Justen Funeral Home & Crematory in
McHenry, IL. Interment with military honors will take place on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL where military honors will be rendered.
In every rose he grew, every stitch he sewed, and every smile he shared, Valentino reminded us that life's true beauty lies in gentle gestures of love and care. His spirit now looks forward to the day when we are all joyfully reunited once again.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Valentino, please visit our floral store.