On Saturday, June 23, 2018, beloved husband, father, and friend Terry Valenzano passed away in his home at the age of 73. Born and raised in Oakland, California, he graduated with a BS in Civil Engineering from Oregon State University in 1967. After joining Bechtel Corporation that same year, Terry travelled the world, living and working in countries from the United States to Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Angola, Papua New Guinea, Australia, Italy and the United Kingdom. During his time working for Bechtel, he influenced thousands of people both in and out of the company, spearheading major construction projects including the reconstruction in Iraq, managing the building of a major industrial city in the Saudi desert, and upgrading the London Underground. He was the also the country manager for construction projects in Angola during the aftermath of their 30 year civil war, and worked and managed numerous nuclear and civil projects throughout the United States. Terry's accomplishments allowed him to engage with some of the most influential people around the world, including Prince Charles of Wales, King Abdulla of Jordan, Margaret Thatcher, Jimmy and Roselynn Carter, both George Bush Sr. and Jr., and Nelson Mandela. But the most powerful effect of Terry's life was his influence on others. He was a fierce proponent of human rights and women's equality, and his love of people allowed him to touch others hearts and change their lives in positive ways. He was loved, not only by his family, but by everyone who met him.

Terry leaves behind his wife Elaine; children Courtney (Alex) Demihovsky, Teri (John) Neumann, and John; sister Vicky Rogers; brother Denny (Deborah); grandchildren Estelle, Charlie, Sophie, Jacob, and Brian; and numerous nieces and nephews. He will be remembered always as one of the most genuine, spirited, kind-hearted men we have ever known. A life celebration for local friends and family will be held on Saturday, June 30 from 2:30-5 PM at the Days Inn located at 7576 S Pere Marquette Hwy, Pentwater, MI 49449. A follow on service will be scheduled for far away friends and family later this summer.
Memorial donations can be directed to the Pentwater Service Club Fund of the Community Foundation for Oceana County, PO Box 367, Shelby, MI 49455 or can be made online at www.oceana-foundation.org.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
www.beaconfh.com