Ishpeming- LaVerne "Babe" (Williams) Valente- age 92, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at Teal Lake Senior Living Community in Negaunee.

LaVerne was born in Kingsford, MI to Ella (LaFave) and Charles Rock, she moved to Ishpeming at age 16, attended Ishpeming High School and graduated with the class of 1944.  She was a life member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and a member of the Ladies ELKs.

LaVerne worked at the H.W. Gossard Company, Robbins Flooring and as a volunteer at St. Vincent DePaul, retiring at the age of 85.

LaVerne loved playing cards especially cribbage with her special friends LaVerne, Eileen, John, Bridget, Greg and many other Teal Lake friends.

LaVerne is survived by her daughter Judy Ann Marra, her special nephews: John Williams, and Michael Mantyla, niece Janie (Rock) Benedict, and several members of the Valente family.  She was preceded in death by her son in law Jim Marra, her brother Vertin Rock, a sister Joyce Mantyla, and her husbands: Ross Williams and Frank Valente.

LaVerne's family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00 AM-11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 13, 2019 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Ishpeming where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM with Fr. Ryan Ford, celebrant.  A luncheon will follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Vincent DePaul, St. Joseph Catholic Church or a charity of one's choice.

A special thank you to the Teal Lake Assisted Living staff, UP Home Health and Hospice, Dr. Grossman, Dr. Gleason and Bobby for all their care.

LaVerne's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.

A recording of LaVerne's service may be listened to here.