Valentino Americo Romagnoli, age 87, passed away surrounded by loved ones on
August 4, 2014 in Ruskin, Florida. Preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy, he is survived
by two daughters: Dr. Valerie Zimbaro and husband Ingmars Fridmanis of Riverview, FL,
and Mary Lynn Dunham of Clearwater, FL. Survivors also include his grandson, Todd
Pursel, wife Jan, and great-granddaughter, Kristin of Orlando, FL; granddaughter, Tracy
Pursel White, husband Steve, and great-grandchildren, Mia and Cory of Buford, GA.
Valentino was born on May 19, 1927 in Alpha, New Jersey and lived with his predeceased
parents, Americo, Sr. and Mary (Armao) Romagnoli, and surviving brothers Albert,
Americo, Jr. "Coonie," Joseph, and Anthony (predeceased). As a young man in the 1940s,
Valentino "Val" began nearly a decade-long military career with service in multiple
branches including the U.S. Merchant Marines, the U.S. Army, and the U.S. Air Force.
Upon completion, he met and married the love of his life, Dorothy Caroline Bonner of
Easton, Pennsylvania, and built their family home in Alpha, New Jersey. During the
following years, he owned and operated "Val's Salvage Yard" and later became a
professional Auctioneer in his successful business, "Val's Auction" serving the tri-state
area. After closing his business in 1981, Val and his wife achieved their dream of "living
on the water" by retiring to a home on the Little Manatee River in Ruskin, Hillsborough
County, Florida.
After moving to Florida, Val and his wife, both avid dancers, enjoyed an active social life
by joining a vibrant civic circle: the Ruskin Moose Lodge #813, in 1983. During his
membership in the Moose Lodge, he was honored for "outstanding efforts in civic affairs
and devotion to duty." In addition, he was acknowledged both locally and regionally for
the following awards and executive positions: Governor (1989), Fellowship Degree
(1991), "Moose of the Year" (1991), District Vice President (1991), District President
(1993-94 and 1994-95) and the 25 Member Club.
Throughout his remaining years, Val Romagnoli continued to live fully, laugh often, and
love much. He was a vivid storyteller, a memorable "character," and he will be greatly
missed. In his memory, and in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Life Path
Hospice, Green Team, Ruskin, FL. There will be no calling hours, and arrangements are
under the direction of Zipperer' s Funeral Home, Ruskin, Florida, whose online memory
book contains a complete obituary