Ishpeming-Nick Valenti of 328 S. 1st Street, Ishpeming, a lifelong resident, passed away after a courageous battle with Cancer. He was 80 years old. Nick entered eternal life with his loving family at his side, while being under the care from U.P Home Health and Hospice, which helped with the family in their time of need.

Nick was born, November 2nd 1930 in Ishpeming to his late mother and father, Elizabeth (Carello) Valenti and Anthony Valenti. As a child he attended St. John's Catholic School. One of Nick's first jobs was that as an elevator lift man for the Cliff's Shaft mine, till closing. He then went on to do mechanic work. Nick owned several businesses in his life; Nick's Pool Hall, Nick's Standard Service on 3rd St. and then on U.S. 41 and 3rd. During this time he built and owned Nick's 41 Speedway. Later in life he worked for the City of Ishpeming as an Equipment Operator and Mechanic until his retirement. He was an avid hunter and fisherman which he enjoyed immensely. He was proud of his garden that he had each year, especially his tomatoes, in which he entered into several contests that the Mining Journal held. Nick enjoyed a trip to the Casino and having a good meal at times. Nick loved to cook for his family, especially great Italian food.

Nick is survived by his loving wife Teresa (Rodda) Valenti, his sons, Dennis (Connie) Valenti of Republic, Stephan (Ann) Valenti of Ishpeming, and his daughter's Linda Bauer of Colorado Springs, Co., Elizabeth (Jim) Krieg of Gwinn, and Katherine Valenti of Ishpeming. He is also survived by his sisters, Genevieve (Jenny) Valenti of Ishpeming, Rose Johnson of Ishpeming and Cecelia Thompson of Henderson, Nevada and Brother Victor (Charlotte) Valenti of Ishpeming. Sister-in-laws, Joan Mathews, Valerie (Gus) Jandreau, both of Ishpeming and April (George) Stagliano of Negaunee, brother-in-laws, David Rodda of Ishpeming and Leonard Rodda of Atlanta, Ga. His 8 Grandchildren, Necole, Cory, Jennifer, Angela, Paul, Phillip, Zachary, and Tasha and 6 Great Grandchildren, along with many Nieces, Nephews and Cousins and very special people in his life, Marian (Anderson) Basal and Glen Pizziola.

Nick was preceded in death, by his mother and father, Elizabeth and Anthony Valenti, a son Rick Valenti, a sister Katherine (Kay) Aho and brothers Frank Valenti, Salvatore (Tudy) Valenti and Dominic Valenti.

A Memorial Service held in honor of his life at 5:00pm on Thursday, February 3, 2011 the Bjork and Zhulkie Funeral Home in Ishpeming with Pastor Rob Kemp officiating. Family will receive family and friends from 3:00-5:00pm at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home.

Following the service a luncheon will be held at the Salvation Army in Ishpeming.

Nick's obituary may be viewed at www.bjorkandzhulkie.com where his guest book may be signed.