In Loving Memory of Rudolph A. Valentini

On Saturday, May 9, 2026, Rudolph A. Valentini of Eastport, New York, passed away peacefully at the age of 90. A devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, he will be remembered for his brilliantly creative mind, his passion for life, and his unwavering devotion to his family.

Born on March 15, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Rudy was the son of Rudolf and Gerarda (Menapace) Valentini. He graduated from the School of Industrial Art in New York City in 1953 and from New York City Community College in 1955. From October 1958 to September 1964, he proudly served in the Army National Guard of New York, including six months of active duty in 1959.

On September 8, 1962, he married Diann (Szakmary) Valentini, the love of his life. Together they raised two sons, Christopher Szak Valentini and David Szak Valentini, in Williston Park, New York. Rudy enjoyed a long and distinguished career in advertising, including an esteemed role as Art Director at Benton &  Bowles, where he received several prestigious industry awards. In 1985, he was honored with a Certificate of Creative Excellence at the CLIO Annual Advertising Festival for his contributions to the Dawn Dishwashing Detergent print advertisement, “It’s Almost Unfair.” In his later years, Rudy regularly volunteered with East End Hospice, including their Camp Good Grief program, providing a safe and caring environment for children who are grieving the loss of a loved one.

Rudy is survived by his son Christopher and daughter-in-law Danielle (Tartaglia) Valentini of Floral Park, New York; his son David and daughter-in-law Laura (Moody) Valentini of Williston Park, New York; his cherished grandchildren, Jon and Leona; his brother, John Valentini of Tennessee; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place at Weigand Brothers Funeral Home, 49 Hillside Ave. Williston Park, NY 11596, Friday from 2-4 & 6-8pm. Prayer service will take place at 7pm. Interment Private. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rudolph’s memory to CurePSP, 325 Hudson

Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10013. https://www.psp.org/