Rosa Valentin

She was born on Oct. 25, 1928 in San German, Puerto Rico. At the age of 17, she decided to immigrate to New York. Five years later, Mrs. Valentin fell in love with her future husband, Antulio Valentin, after he returned home from Panama during World War II.

Together they raised four children in a Lower East Side apartment. Mrs. Valentin also worked 28 years in the laundry department at St. Vincent's Hospital where she was honored twice by the administration for her hard work and dedication.

After retiring in 1993, Mrs. Valentin continued her independent and fighting spirit. She was known for cooking large meals and bringing people together by breaking bread.

She passed away on May 20, 2014 in the same apartment building where she raised her family.

Mrs. Valentin was preceded in death by her son Alfonso and husband Antulio. She is survived by her daughters, Lucy and Angie, son Angel and many grandchildren.

A memorial service is scheduled for May 24 at Immaculate Conception Church from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Burial will be in Long Island National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.