Rita (Fitzgerald) Valenza

Rita (Fitzgerald) Valenza, 85, of Westvale, passed away peacefully at Upstate Community Hospital.

Born and raised in Ballston Spa, Rita was a graduate of St. Peter’s Academy and St. Peter’s School of Nursing in Albany. She devoted her life to caring for others, working as a registered nurse at the VA Hospital in Albany and later at the Van Duyn Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. After retiring from nursing, she served as a school bus driver for the Westhill School District.

Rita was an active member of the Solvay Tigers A.C. Ladies Auxiliary and the Camillus Garden Club, and she found great joy in gardening and bird watching.

Above all, Rita cherished time with her family and friends. Her warmth and quiet strength will be remembered always.

Rita was predeceased by her parents, Daniel and Rita Fitzgerald; and brother, Daniel Fitzgerald.

Surviving are her husband of 62 years, David; sons, David Jr. of Syracuse, Paul of Fairport, Daniel of Syracuse, and Michael (Brigid) of Buffalo; six grandchildren; one great-grandson; and several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank all those who took such loving care of her.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

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