Michael Patrick Valerie was born on April 8, 1946 to parents Michael and Rita Valerie in Bronx, NY. His mother always said that when he was born, he was so perfect with rosy cheeks and all the nurses went crazy for him. A couple years later Michael's sister Laura was born and finally his brother Greg. Michael grew up in Bellrose, NY. He always enjoyed buying things for his family. In fact one time Michael's mother and father went out and advised the babysitter to keep the children in the house as the weather was horrible. Michael decided that he wanted to buy candy for his brother and sister. So he broke into the jar of coins and proceeded outside to purchase the candy, but fell on the ice and broke his leg. This was typical of Michael because when he set his mind out to do something, nothing could stop him. Although his father kept a strict bookkeeping record of all the money his children borrowed (the little black book), Michael hated asking for money and set out to make his own money. At an early age, he began working in the produce department at a grocery store. Michael excelled in school, especially in math. After high school, he pushed his draft number up and served in Viet Nam. Although he never spoke of his tour in Viet Nam, he joked that he rode on this machine with guns on it and he said he never knew what he hit, he just kept on shooting. After being honorably discharge, Michael met and married Darlene Rubbo.
Not too long after, Michael and Darlene welcomed their son, Anthony, into the world on March 3, 1969 and lived in Queens Village. Three and a half years later, Michael and Darlene had a baby girl, Karen on August 8, 1972. Michael was lucky to have a very close knit family that lived within minutes of each other. His sister, Laura and husband, Augie had three children of their own, Lori Ann, Anthony and yet another Michael. Happy family times were spent at Grandma and Grandpa's backyard where barbeques were held. They was always so much laughter and plenty of toys for the kids to play with.
In 1976, MIchael and his family moved to Stony Point, NY and after his separation from his wife, he resided in Staten Island, NY until moving to Monroe Township, NJ in 2002. It's funny what you remember about a person. I can remember waking up very early and following my father around the house while he got ready for work. He would splash my face with aftershave. When I smell leather, I will always think of my father as he always wore leather coats and drove cars with leather seats. I can remember his laugh, it was so contagious. My dad could get lost in the driveway. No matter where he went or how many times he went somewhere, he always got lost. In Viet Nam, my dad would be on one road and the convoy would be on the other. My brother and I speak of what my dad has taught us and the one thing that stands out in our mind is to always have a sense of humor. My dad told me one time not to dwell about my present situation because my whole life could change in an instant and it has.
