Maria I. Valentin (Mom/Norma) was an amazing Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma and mother-in-law, as well as a great wife of 62 years to her loving husband Juan Valentin, prior to his passing 6 years ago. Survived by son George, daughter Elizabeth and son-in-law Leo, son John and daughter-in-law Clara; grandchildren, Leo and wife Penelope, Jason and wife Pamela, Jeanie, Aaron, Melanie, Emily; great grandchildren, L.J., Alex, Jackson and Stella Luna. She was also an amazing aunt, Godmother and friend to her loving family and friends. Mom or Norma! as she was known to all, always believed that the way to her family and friends’ heart was through their stomach. She wanted to feed everyone and if she could “no one would go hungry” in her presence, as she would share the food on her plate, if needed. Mom was loved by many, near and far and never realized how loved she really was. The simplest pleasures in life brought comfort and happiness to Mom, whereby, being surrounded by family and friends gathered around her dining room table and serving you food was her passion. She adored that everyone complimented her food and the great meal she served. Gardening was another of her favorite passions in life and she loved that neighbors, family and friends would pass by and say “Mom, your garden is beautiful” as she would give you that great dimpled proud smile. Mom also enjoyed music, singing, dancing and novellas, as you would find her at times dancing in the kitchen enjoying her salsa. A visit to mom’s house meant that you would get something to eat “now or for later” and would also hear lengthy stories about her life and life experiences with her “Viejo” aka “Pops”. Mom led a fulfilled life surrounded by amazing family and friends and I know if she were able to say to all of those in her life that she loved and loved her so dearly, she would say looking down at this moment “Gracias Mamita” or “Gracias Papito”………..