Joseph T. Valenti

Joseph T. Valenti, of River Vale, passed away on Sept 23, 2020. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Jeanne Valenti (nee DiMartino), his daughters, Victoria Valenti, Valerie Valenti-Zapf (David), grandson, Joseph Valenti and beloved dog, Tyler. He is also survived by his brother Richard Valenti (Terry), many nieces and nephews, cousins and dear friends.

Always enjoying the limelight, he was known for telling dirty jokes and limericks at any occasion. He had a knack for making up songs that always pushed the limit of “respectable” (well really, they were never respectable). Joe knew how to hold court whether he was with just one other person or in a large crowd. You were just naturally pulled into his orbit and happy to be there. He kept his sense of humor to the end, continuing to jokingly insult his daughters and his nurses.

He had many hobbies and interests. Rarely in front of the camera, Joe loved photography, nature, history, science, music, trains, fish and cross country road trips. His love for these helped to fuel similar interests in his daughters and grandson where they hope to carry on his traditions.

Joe taught grades 6-8 social studies for over 30 years in Northvale, NJ. He loved being with his students and the teachers. He was the kind of teacher that students and parents either loved with a passion, or hated with just as much passion. He was tough but fair, he was fun but didn’t tolerate undisciplined nonsense in the classroom.

He also brought his humor and intellect to his tax and payroll business for 30 years. He cared deeply for every one of his clients as if they were part of his own family. He always strived to get them as much money as he could while “sticking it to the man” - all legally of course! His clients trusted him implicitly and most stayed with him throughout the entire lifespan of the business.

In his last few weeks of life, he was obsessed with three things: getting a new IPad, getting better and living long enough to cast his vote. Sadly, only one of these three things came true for him.

A memorial service is being held on Sunday, September 27th from 2-6PM at Becker Funeral Home in Westwood, NJ. If comfortable, we do invite friends and family to come and share stories. Due to Covid, there are certain restrictions- masks are required at all times. Gloves are not required but are recommended. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Salvation Army https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/ or Meals on Wheels https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/ or vote Blue, in his honor.