Valerie Delphey (Van Tongeren), 68, passed away August 13, 2021 in Washington, Indiana. Born 1953 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she was an avid skier and equestrian in her youth, and had a lifelong love of the ocean.
She is survived by her twin daughters Jennifer Delphey and Stephanie South (husband, Bill), and her many close friends. She was preceeded in death by her ex-husband, Craig Delphey (74), parents Sally and Frank Smith, and brothers Jeff and Herk Van Tongeren.
Valerie loved to make others smile with small gifts and homemade treats. Ask anyone what they remember most about Valerie and they will likely recount the time Val brought them a loaf of homemade banana bread, or a holiday gift bag. She liked to make everyone feel special, and to bring joy to their day.
She found love with her chemistry teacher’s assistant, Craig, at Oregon State University. After graduation, the two married at her parents’ farm in Auburn, CA and later had twin girls (which Valerie had famously wished for at Thanksgiving, years before, on a turkey wishbone). Valerie made every birthday and holiday a major occasion, celebrating every milestone. She would be happy to see those who loved her celebrate her life with a smile and fond memory.
The family plans a small, private ceremony near the ocean, in Washington state.
