Andrew J. Valentine

Andrew J. Valentine died peacefully at home on August 4, 2021 at the age of 96. Born January 6, 1925, in Norfolk, VA, Andy spent most of his early years in New York City. His lifelong love of music began when he was selected as a member of New York City’s Grace Church Boys Choir at age nine. During this time, Andy became a soloist and performed with the New York Metropolitan Opera. He graduated at an early age from Trinity School before entering the U.S. Naval Academy. Andy graduated in three years in 1945 and was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy. His illustrious 26-year naval career was highlighted by numerous achievements at duty stations throughout the world including Asia, Europe, and both US coasts. After serving in the seventh fleet in China, Andy went to flight training in Pensacola, Florida, where he met Marjorie Ann Parks, the love of his life. Marjorie and Andy were married in 1949, and Andy continued his naval aviation career flying off aircraft carriers and hunting enemy submarines. In 1951, Andy made the decision to study law. In a unique program sponsored by the Navy, he earned his law degree with highest honors from George Washington Law School in 1954. He earned a second law degree in International Law from Yale Law School in 1966. As a member of the Judge Advocate General Corps, Andy served in many prestigious legal assignments including legal officer for the Sixth Fleet in Europe and legal advisor and legislative counsel for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. During his years on the Joint Staff in the Pentagon, Andy was assigned as a delegate to the United Nations to negotiate the Outer Space Treaty with Ambassador Arthur Goldberg. In addition to other honors, he received the Legion of Merit medal for his work as legal advisor to two Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Earl G. Wheeler and Admiral Thomas Moorer. During his years in Washington DC, Andy was invited to sing with the National Cathedral Choral Society and participated in concerts at locations throughout the city including the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

After retiring as a Captain from the Navy, Andy began a second career as a corporate attorney. He served as Acting General Counsel for the National Railway Passenger Corporation (Amtrak), then as an attorney for AT&T. In 1978, he and Marjorie moved to Chicago where Andy worked as Assistant General Counsel for the Northern Trust Bank. He retired from the Northern in 1995 and served as a mediator for the Circuit Court of Cook County, IL.

Andy and Marjorie had a wonderful 62-year marriage. They achieved a perfect balance in supporting each other as they advanced their careers and followed their passions. Marjorie and Andy had a rich life of adventures and shared many unique opportunities such as living on the French Riviera and building a life in Winnetka, IL. Marjorie preceded Andy in death in 2011. Andy’s enduring passion for music translated into commissioning a hymn in her memory.

Andy is survived by his three children, Rawson James Valentine (Amy), Atlee Valentine Pope (Richard), and Sarah Provost Valentine. He is also survived by his five grandchildren, John Valentine, Elizabeth Valentine Carpenter (Elliott), Andrew Pope, Charlotte Pope, Lauren Reed, and by his great-grandson, William Carpenter. The family thanks the compassionate caregivers who helped him through his last two years of life.

A celebration of life will be held at Christ Church, 784 Sheridan Road, Winnetka, IL 60093 at 11 AM on August 28. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Christ Church or the charity of your choice.