My Dearest Valerie:

            You were my loving wife, and a step-mother, daughter, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and friend to all whose lives you touched.  God only lent you to me.  He decided he needed you.  On November 29, 2011 at 10:58 P.M, he took you to heaven after suffering a massive cerebral hemorrhage.  I was with you when this happened.  It was fortunate that you did not suffer this event very long.  

      You were the first born to your parents, Bonnie Preuss Viviano and Nicholas S. Viviano, Sr. on November 21, 1960. You loved your two brothers, Nicholas S. Viviano, Jr. and Joseph Anthony Viviano. Valerie is survived by her husband and best friend, Mark D. Lanemann, of Wright City, MO.  Valerie, you and I shared our deepest and darkest secrets since high school.  It was only years later that I could catch you and put that ring around your finger.

      You worked hard at Alternative Opportunities as a job coach for the mentally challenged teens.  You taught them how to succeed in life, and on the job.  You loved that job because it fit your personality.  I know that you went the extra mile to help these children, because you loved them so much, and your respect for them was immense.  You always complimented them.  To me, this only exemplified your own hard work and love for all human life.  You never complained to me about your job.  You only reported to me, that these teens were wonderful, and stressed their potential for the future.

      The one thing in life you always wanted was children.  Yet, you couldn’t have any.  You set out then to volunteer at the animal rescue center.  Did you have to bring three cats home?  Of course you did, because they were considered your children, and you successfully cared for them to the ultimate extent.  They had the best food, toys, and in particular your unconditional love.  They really miss you.  They walk around the house looking for you. They know something is not right.

      I will comply with your wishes of spreading your ashes over Pikes Peak in Colorado. You loved the snow, the mountains, and it was your favorite place to live.

      Most of all Valerie, I miss you. Your entire family is devastated, and it will be most difficult to go on without you.  We will all have the most terrific memories of you.  You MADE Christmas, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day each and every year special. Your generosity, cheerfulness, loyalty, honesty, kindness and compassion toward all human beings can never be forgotten. Valerie, I will always love you……

Your loving husband…..Mark