Valerie L. Almgren

Valerie Louise (Pepin) Almgren “Val”, was called home on May 28, 2022.
Born in Springfield, MA to Florence (Labine) and Harold Pepin, Val grew up there and graduated from Springfield Technical High School.
She married John E. Almgren Jr. of Ludlow, MA who predeceased her in 1993.  Together they raised three children; Candace (Michael) Rutz of Longmeadow, MA, Robert Almgren of North Port, Florida and Mark (Mary Cole) Almgren of Wales, Maine.  She leaves four grandchildren; Tyler Almgren, John & Joseph Almgren and Jenna Rutz.
Dedicated to her role as homemaker, Val took pride in her children’s education both academically and socially involving them in diverse activities to push them outside their comfort zones. Her adventurous nature led the family to summers at the Rhode Island and New Hampshire shores where fond memories were made.  With child rearing years complete Val began her professional career; a sales representative for Brachs Candy, enjoyed for several years prior to John’s retirement. Another chapter completed; the call of adventure beckoned her once again to the Gulf Coast of Florida.  Here Val thoroughly embraced Florida living, residing in Sarasota, Nokomis, Venice then North Port.  In between her active social and church life she took on the management role of the Pelican Man Thrift Shop to benefit a sanctuary for rescued pelicans.  Additionally, she volunteered at the local Humane Society and Health Park.  Her proudest achievement was receiving the coveted first place Bell Ringer Award as top earner of the Salvation Army Kettle Drive. In 2015 Val returned to Western MA to be nearer to her New England family.  As a resident of Landmark (now Prosper) at Monastery Heights in West Springfield, she enjoyed all the community offered by the caring and dedicated staff, especially the Morning Star team.  Along with the superb staff from Serenity Care Pace she was able to navigate the challenges of dementia.  Val’s zest for life, spunk, kind heart and sense of humor will be remembered by all who loved her.
In keeping with her fun-loving spirit, a Celebration of Val’s life will be planned in the future. New England Funeral & Cremation Center, LLC, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please visit Valerie’s memorial page at www.nefcc.net to extend condolences.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the local Alzheimer's Association or Salvation Army in Val’s name.

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Valerie L. Almgren.