John A. Valinis

John A. Valinis, beloved husband of Mickey (nee Sirianni) passed into eternal life on May 1 at the age of 83 after contracting COVID-19. John was raised in Maple Shade, New Jersey, by his loving parents, Anna and Adam. From them, John and his younger brother Michael (Sandy) developed a lifelong love of the outdoors and a voracious appetite for knowledge. John was an avid fisherman, astronomer, reader of science fiction and a consummate tinkerer. He could make, improve or fix anything. John was brilliant, even winning the New Jersey State spelling bee. During his military service, the Army recognized his intellect, sending him to language school to learn Russian. He served in Germany translating intercepted Soviet communications. John worked for IBM and met his beloved Mickey, the “catch of his life,” while fixing IBM mainframes at her office. For over fifty-seven years, together they enjoyed travel, time with their many dear friends and the love of their family, especially their children, Maria (Mike) and Jay (Susie). After John retired, they took up residence by the ocean, moving to Sea Isle City, New Jersey. For many years, John could be found in the surf casting his line for flounder, bluefish and the ever elusive striped bass. John would often present his catches to his awaiting five grandchildren, Brendan, Colin, Meghan, Joe and Owen. They all basked in the love of their Grampy. Though suffering from advancing dementia in recent years, John remained entirely devoted to his Mickey and their family. John was a quietly strong, brilliant, loving and kind man. He lived a beautiful and simple life and he will, simply, be missed.