Valerie Bartalone, lovingly known as Val, passed away on June 26, 2025, at the age of 74.
Val was born in Benton Harbor to Robert & Ruth Lockwitz. She graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1968 and married the love of her life, Anthony Bartalone, on October 10, 1970. She was a devoted stay-at-home mom and wife who created a warm, welcoming home filled with laughter, good food, and open arms.
Val loved spending time at the lake house, relaxing with her dog Cosmo, and gathering with her friends and extended family. She gardened for much of her life and was an excellent cook, always trying new recipes and sharing them with the people she loved. Generous, fun-loving, and kind, Val had a gift for making everyone feel at home, especially her grandchildren, who lovingly referred to her as “Nana.”
She was preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Lockwitz. She is survived by her husband of fifty-four years, Anthony Bartalone; her father, Robert Lockwitz; her brothers, Gary (Faith) and Kevin Lockwitz; her daughters, Amber (Christopher) Horton and Janna (Shaun) Bitterle; and her grandchildren: Nathan, Marisa, Andrew, Jacob, and Matthew, and several nieces & nephews.
Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI. A celebration of Life Service will follow at 12:00 P.M. at the funeral home with Deacon Ed Nickel officiating. Private burial will take place at North Shore Memory Gardens in Coloma. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. Those wishing to sign Val’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Posted On: Tuesday, July 1, 2025 3:45 PM
