Richard A. Valentine

Mr. Richard Arthur Valentine, 91, of Atlanta died peacefully on September 3, 2024 at WellSprings Lutheran Services in Fairview, Michigan. Richard was born at home in Atlanta to Homer and Ida Mae (Canfield) Valentine on June 12,1933. He graduated from Atlanta Community Schools. The September after Richard graduated, he went to work for the DNR as a tower man (looking out for fires) and also doing maintenance. After being laid off each winter, in 1965, Richard was hired full time with the DNR in the fire division. He remained with them for many years until retirement in 1994. For fun, Richard enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping with friends and relatives, he made maple syrup, raised bees for honey and ran a sawmill. On December 20,1952 Richard married Elaine Virginia Agren. They enjoyed 71 years of marriage.

Richard is survived by his wife, Elaine; three sons: Eric (Fern) Valentine, Dale (Barb) Valentine, Gary (Joey) Valentine; sisters, Barb Hicks, Virginia Nichols; half-brothers, Rolland Valentine, Russell Valentine, Reid Valentine; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Illa Irons, Homer Valentine Jr., Jack Valentine, Ronald Valentine; son, Wayne and daughters-in-law, Karen Stein and Donna Rice.

There will be a memorial service held in celebration of Richard's life at 11:00 AM on Monday, September 23, 2024 at Big Rock Congregational Church, Atlanta. Visitation will take place from 10:00 AM until time of service. A luncheon will follow services. Donations can be made in memory of Richard to: Hospice Angels, 121 West Washington Alpena Michigan, 49707.