Helen C. Valentini

Helen (Obrzut) Valentini, 97, of Springfield passed away peacefully on October 2, 2024 at Baystate Medical Center. Helen was born to the late Caroline (Felichek) and John Obrzut of Ludlow. She was a 1945 graduate of Ludlow High School. Helen’s first job was at a local ice cream parlor. She met the love of her life, Albert when they were both employed by the U.S. Envelope Company. She went on to enjoy 23 years as a cook in the Springfield School System, and was a strong supporter of her union, becoming involved to ensure better pay and benefits for her co-workers.
In her spare time, she enjoyed honing her skills as an avid golfer at Ludlow Country Club and traveling the world with her husband. Nothing gave her more pleasure than dancing the night away with Albert and spending time with the old “Walker, Texas Ranger.” She also loved her time as an assistant coach and board member of the Springfield Aqualinas.
Family meant the world to “Little Helen.” She leaves her loving daughter Dianne Normand and her son in law Donald, her grandchildren and their partners; Vincent Normand (Misty), Anthony Normand (Hsinpei), Jackelyn Normand, Michael Normand (Krystyna), Alex Huyn, Daniel Maroney and Sam Maroney (Charlotte), and her greatest joy; her great grandchildren; Noah, Elizabeth and Elora. She is also survived by her brother in law Vincent Valentini (Angela) and her sisters in law; Linda and Janice Valentini, as well as many loving nieces, nephews and great nieces.
Helen was predeceased by her amazing husband Albert in 2016, her beautiful daughter Donna Maroney (in 2008) and her son in law Timothy Maroney (in 2009), as well as her three sisters; Sophie Mindes (Saul), Annie Andrejewski, Nellie Boduc and four brothers; Michael Obrzut (Bea), Walter, Stanley and Joe Obrzut and her sister and brothers in law; Marianne and Ted Samble, Tom Valentini and Saul Mindes
The family would like to thank Helen’s caregiver Roberta for the highest level of kindness and compassion, and the dedicated staff at Baystate Medical Center; from floor 6A to ICU, then hospice care, everyone we met were so kind and supportive in Helen’s final journey home.
Helen was a remarkable “little” lady with a big heart. She filled our lives with love and laughter. Always up for an adventure or a great dinner with friends. We will miss her kindness, strength and especially the love she gave to us all.
Helen’s Funeral Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Wilbraham Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Donations in Helen’s memory may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew St., Springfield, MA 01104 or to the Gray House, 22 Sheldon St., Springfield, MA 01107.