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Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52401
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Wednesday, June 15, 2022
James F. Valenta
James F. Valenta
Cedar Rapids
James F. Valenta, 78, died on June 10, 2022, due to dementia. He was married to his wife, Caryl, for 56 years and who was honored to have been by his side throughout. He had a family that he was very proud of. They include Marc Valenta (Beth), grandchildren Samantha and Anna Valenta, Robin Valenta-Cooper (Scott), grandchildren Alex (Raevyn) and Emma Cooper, Michael “Chip” Valenta (Jodi), grandchildren Logan Koopman (Damon), and Frank Valenta.
Jim graduated from the University of Iowa with a BBA in 1965 and was president/owner of Valenta Plumbing and Heating Inc. where he worked with his brothers, Tom and Ron.
Anyone who knew Jim knew him as a wonderful, funny, generous and honest man who kept those qualities right to the end. Jim loved playing and watching sports, being in nature and, of course, fishing. He was grateful not only to have his family but lifelong close friends Jim and Judy Hronek, Jan and Bill Kuba, Jeanne and Mel Jontz, and Steve and Ann Valenta.
We are all grateful to have known and loved him.
In his honor, we encourage you to think of him as you plant a tree and give to the St. Luke’s Hospice, where they were so kind and caring.

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