Charles Robert Valenta

Charles Robert Valenta entered his eternal home in heaven March 18, 2015, after suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. He was born August 19, 1930 in Silmar, California and grew up in Alhambra. Chuck graduated from San Diego State in 1953, married his sweetheart Muriel in 1955, and made his home in San Diego the rest of his life.

“Mr. V” taught school in the La Mesa Spring Valley School District from 1953 to 1989. He was at Fletcher Hills Elementary for 24 years where he taught several children of former students over the years. Mr. V was a strict disciplinarian who demanded the best from students, many of whom thanked him later for preparing them for their further education. Unfortunately they also had to put up with his very corny sense of humor and horrible puns. They were also bombarded with his allegiance to the San Diego State AZTECS.

Chuck enjoyed road trips with his family during summers to national parks and other interesting places in the U.S. Geography was one of his favorite subjects to teach. In retirement he went on several cruises to Mexico, Alaska, Panama Canal and Hawaii. If Chuck hadn’t taught, he would have been a weatherman. He had a weather station in the back yard, kept records of all rainfall and could tell how much rain fell on any day of at least the past 50 years. He kept track of annual rainfall data and could give statistics to compare heavy rain and drought years. He often prayed for rain and the AZTECS to win.

Chuck was an AZTEC for life. One of his great pleasures was going to SDSU football games. He had attended virtually every game since the AZTECS started playing in the stadium in about 1967 until 2012. Over the years he enjoyed many tailgate and after game parties with friends. He also went to many basketball games in the Viejas Arena and is probably following the team currently from heaven.

Chuck’s family was the most important thing in his life. He was a very loving son, husband, father and grandfather. He cared for his parents in their declining years and was always very protective of his wife and daughters, making sure they were safe without holding them back.

Chuck has a very deep relationship with God and has read the Bible through three times. He certified he has experienced a few miracles and encouraged all to believe and live with God in their hearts.

Chuck, also known as Grandpa, is survived by his beloved wife of almost 60 years, Muriel. He would say he leaves the best daughters, Judi Snow and Carol Valenta Williams, and the most outstanding grandchildren, Samantha Snow, Ashleigh Snow, Kyle Williams and Nicole Williams. He left sealed letters written several years ago for each of his survivors to be opened upon his death. They contain personal notes of love, encouragement, and instruction for living a good life.

Charles Robert Valenta will remain lovingly in our hearts forever.

The family will celebrate his life at graveside services at Singing Hills Memorial Park Tuesday, March 24.

If desired, friends may send donations to Alzheimer’s Association.