Walter John Valites

Walter was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut to the late Walter and Marie Valites. He is survived by his wife Pamela, his siblings Marilyn Robinson and Henry Valites, his children Matthew and Caroline, their spouses Carolyn and Jason, many nieces and nephews, and his dog Rikki.

Walter was a jack-of-all-trades, and loved to regale you with stories about his time as a singing gorilla, bouncer, truck driver, musician, and softball coach. He was a generous, loving man who was quick to pour you a drink and tell you to pull up a chair.

Walter and Pam met swimming laps at a health club. Walter playfully splashed to get her attention, and was met with Pam's indignation. But, it was the opening he needed: this fiery beginning quickly morphed into a deep friendship, and then blossomed into a lifelong love affair. 

They weathered many storms together, including a traumatic brain injury. Walter and Pam became active members of the brain injury community. Walter was a stalwart advocate for brain injury survivors and all people with disabilities.

A celebration of his life will be planned for the Spring. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Brain Injury Association of North Carolina.