Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown

Valerie Kratochvil obituary Smithtown , a cherished member of the Smithtown community, passed away on May 22, 2024.

Her passing has left a significant void in the lives of those who knew her. Valerie was known for her kindness, generosity, and her deep commitment to her family and community.

This article reflects on her life and the many ways she made a difference.

Table of Contents

Biographical Information of Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown

Early Life

Valerie Kratochvil was born on September 12, 1945, in New York City. She grew up in Smithtown, where she was a beloved member of the community. Her family was an integral part of her upbringing, providing a loving and supportive environment throughout her childhood.

Education

Valerie attended Smithtown High School, where she excelled academically. She pursued higher education at Stony Brook University, earning a Bachelor’s degree. Her passion for learning led her to further her studies with a Master’s degree in Journalism from Columbia University. Her education played a crucial role in shaping her successful career.

Career Highlights

Teaching Career

Valerie dedicated over 30 years to teaching at Smithtown High School. She was known for her enthusiasm and commitment to her students. Her teaching went beyond the classroom, inspiring many students to pursue their dreams and achieve their goals. Her impact on education in Smithtown will be remembered for years to come.

Journalism Career

Valerie’s journalism career was marked by her work at Smithtown News, The New York Times, APK news and CNN. She was recognized for her reporting on social justice and human rights, earning several awards for her dedication and skill. Her work brought important issues to light and had a lasting impact on the field of journalism.

Personal Life

Family

Valerie was married to John Kratochvil for nearly 50 years. Their long and loving marriage was a cornerstone of her life. Together, they had two children: Emily, who became a teacher, and Michael, who pursued a career in engineering. Valerie also cherished her four grandchildren: Lily, Ethan, Olivia, and Jacob. Her family was a source of immense pride and joy for her.

Interests and Hobbies

Outside of her professional life, Valerie had a passion for gardening and art. She spent much of her free time tending to her garden and creating beautiful paintings. Valerie was also actively involved in local theater and community events, contributing her talents and enthusiasm to various projects.

Community Impact

Volunteer Work

Valerie Kratochvil was deeply committed to her community. She dedicated her time to several causes:

Local Food Banks: Valerie regularly volunteered at food banks in Smithtown, helping to provide essential supplies to those in need.
Elderly Programs: She was actively involved in organizing events and activities for the elderly, ensuring they felt valued and supported.
Church Activities: Valerie participated in various activities at her local church, including community outreach programs and charitable events. Her faith and dedication were evident in everything she did.

Professional Contributions

In addition to her community service, Valerie made significant contributions to her professional field:

Mentorship in Finance: Valerie was known for her expertise in financial planning and analysis. She mentored many young professionals, sharing her knowledge and helping them navigate their careers.
Dedication to Financial Planning: Throughout her career, Valerie demonstrated a strong commitment to her clients and the financial industry. Her work was marked by integrity and a deep understanding of financial matters.

Memorial Service Details

Service Information

Valerie Kratochvil’s memorial service is scheduled as follows:

Date and Time: May 29, 2024, at 10 am.
Location: Smithtown Funeral Home, 123 Main Street, Smithtown, NY.
Parking: Available in the funeral home parking lot and on the street. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to find parking and be seated before the service begins.
Attire Recommendations: Business casual attire is suggested for the service to honor Valerie’s memory respectfully.

Donations

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made to the American Cancer Society. This organization was important to Valerie, and contributions can be made:

At the Service: There will be a donation box available for those who wish to contribute.
Online or By Mail: Donations can also be made online or sent by mail to support cancer research and support programs.

Final Resting Place

Burial Information

Valerie Kratochvil will be laid to rest at:

Location: St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Smithtown, NY.
Cemetery Details: The cemetery is located on the north side of Jericho Turnpike, just east of Route 111. It offers a serene and peaceful environment for those who visit.
Visiting Hours: The cemetery is open every day from dawn until dusk. The office is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Condolences and Tributes

Guestbook

Valerie’s guestbook is filled with heartfelt messages from family, friends, and colleagues. Many have shared their condolences and fond memories of Valerie, reflecting on the positive impact she had on their lives. These messages serve as a testament to her kindness and the lasting impression she made on those around her.

Memorial Donations

For those who wish to contribute to Valerie’s memory, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society. Details on how to contribute are available:

Online: Contributions can be made through the American Cancer Society’s website.
By Mail: Donations can be sent directly to the organization.

Acknowledgements

Gratitude

In this difficult time, Valerie Kratochvil’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported them:

Medical Staff: Special thanks are given to the dedicated team at St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center for their compassionate care and professionalism throughout Valerie’s illness.
Family and Friends: The family appreciates the love and support received from relatives, friends, and the community. Your kind words and gestures have been a great source of comfort.
Attendees of the Service: Thank you to everyone who attended Valerie’s memorial service and offered their condolences. Your presence and support were deeply valued and helped to honor Valerie’s memory.

Obituary Publication

Publication Information

Valerie Kratochvil’s obituary was published to inform the community about her passing and celebrate her life:

Date: The obituary appeared in the Smithtown News on May 23, 2024, two days after her passing.
Format: It was featured in both the print edition of the Smithtown News and on their website. The obituary included essential details such as Valerie’s life, her family, and information about the memorial service.
Social Media Sharing: The obituary was also shared on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter, allowing friends and family members to share their memories and express their condolences.

Conclusion

Valerie Kratochvil’s passing is a significant loss to the Smithtown community and beyond.

Her life was marked by a dedication to teaching, journalism, and community service. Valerie was a beloved educator, a respected journalist, and a generous volunteer, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met.

As we remember Valerie, let us honor her memory by reflecting on the positive changes she made in the lives of those around her.

Her legacy of kindness, dedication, and compassion will continue to inspire and resonate through the contributions she made and the lives she touched.

FAQs About Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown

1. Who was Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown?

Valerie Kratochvil was a beloved Smithtown resident who passed away on May 22, 2024. She was known for her dedication to teaching, her successful journalism career, and her active involvement in community service.

2. What were Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown main achievements?

Valerie made significant contributions as a teacher at Smithtown High School for over 30 years and earned recognition as a journalist with notable work for The New York Times and CNN. She also played a key role in local volunteer activities and was an avid gardener and artist.

3. How did Valerie impact her community?

Valerie was a cornerstone of the Smithtown community. She volunteered at local food banks, helped organize programs for the elderly, and was actively involved in her church. Her professional contributions in finance also positively affected many lives.

4. When and where was Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown’s memorial service held?

Valerie’s memorial service took place on May 29, 2024, at 10 am at the Smithtown Funeral Home, located at 123 Main Street, Smithtown, NY. Attendees were advised on parking options and attire recommendations.

5. Where will Valerie Kratochvil be laid to rest?

Valerie will be buried at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Smithtown, NY. The cemetery offers a serene environment and is open to visitors daily from dawn until dusk.

6. How can I honor Valerie’s memory?

In lieu of flowers, Valerie’s family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society. Contributions can be made online or by mail. Additionally, reflecting on her positive impact and remembering her contributions to education and community service are meaningful ways to honor her memory.

7. How did Valerie’s family express their gratitude?

The Kratochvil family expressed heartfelt thanks to the medical staff at St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center, as well as to family, friends, and all who attended the service. Their support and kindness were greatly appreciated during this challenging time.

8. Where can I read Valerie’s obituary?

Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown was published in the Smithtown News on May 23, 2024, and can be found both in the print edition and on the newspaper’s website. It was also shared on social media to reach a wider audience.

9. What were Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown hobbies and personal interests?

Outside of her professional life, Valerie enjoyed gardening and creating art. She was also involved in local theater and community events, where her creative talents shone brightly.

10. How did Valerie’s career evolve over the years?

Valerie Kratochvil Obituary Smithtown began her career as a journalist with the Smithtown News, eventually working for prestigious organizations like The New York Times and CNN. Her reporting on social justice and human rights earned her numerous awards and accolades.