RONALD LEO VALINOTI, a resident of Lockeford, California, passed away peacefully at his home on November 7, 2016, at the age of 81 following a protracted struggle with cancer. Ron was born in Tracy, California to Domenico (“Dan”) Valinoti and Isabel Delmuto-Valinoti on August 14, 1935. He attended St. Anne’s Catholic School and Lodi High School and was a member of the 1954 Lodi High School championship track team that was inducted into the Lodi Sports Hall of Fame on March 31, 2000.He Ron served his Country for 2 years on active duty in the Navy during the Korean War followed by eight years as a reservist. Following active duty, he attended U.C. Davis before transferring to Cal Poly where he received his bachelor’s degree in dairy science. Later, he continued his education and received a master’s degree in business administration.
Ron’s career began in Berkeley, California during the tumultuous 60’s where he worked as a health inspector for the Alameda County Health Department. He transferred to the San Joaquin County Environmental Health District in 1974 where he worked until retirement in 1993. He served as Director of the Health District from 1987 until his retirement. During his tenure, the District received national recognition for achievement in providing outstanding food protection services to the community. Following retirement, Ron continued in community service as a member of the board of directors for the Mokelumne Rural County Fire Protection District. He enjoyed pursuing other entrepreneurial interests including managing the family real estate holdings and his used car dealership.
Ron’s energy was unlimited and unending. He abhorred idleness. He was relentless in his pursuit of whatever task was at hand, including his battle with cancer. He was always willing to lend an ear or helping hand to anyone who asked. When consulted, he offered humble and sage advice on matters ranging from growing perfect tomatoes to charting important life decisions. He promoted hard work and discipline in all aspects of his life and instilled courage, motivation, and self-confidence in those who worked with him or knew him. Ron especially enjoyed spending time with his family at his beloved mountain cabin near Bear Valley.
Ron is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 60 years, Sharon; his daughter Dr. Jan Valinoti; son-in- law Dr. Parnell Galloway; son Kenneth Valinoti; daughter-in-law Shannon Hardin; brother Dan Valinoti; sister-in-law Barbara Valinoti, and sister-in-law Rose Mary Wiech. He is further survived by six adoring grandchildren: Mari Galloway, Sarah Galloway, Cristiana Giannini, Elisa Valinoti, Joseph Valinoti and Kai Valinoti and several nephews and nieces. The family extends its warmest regards and appreciation to the several caregivers who cared for Ron and provided him loving care during his final days.