Wednesday, April 4, 2007

Valerie Ann Dumke


Valerie Ann Dumke, 53, died unexpectedly in the home she loved in Lamoille, Nev., on Thursday, March 29, 2007. We cherished her as a mother, a daughter, a sister, and a dear friend.

Valerie had extensive ties to the Wood River Valley since moving here with her family in 1969. Her life in the Wood River Valley included graduating from Wood River High School as the homecoming queen, extensive involvement with the Moritz Hospital Auxiliary, a founding member of the Mountain School, and her involvement with the recovery community.

Anyone who met Val was immediately touched by her loving heart. She had a contagious laugh, a joyful outlook, and an enthusiasm for life. Many will remember her as proprietor of Angel Wings, where she beautifully expressed her artistic talents. Just as she believed in Angels' presence on earth, so we believe she is peacefully with them now.

Val spent the last several years living on her ranch at the foot of the Ruby Mountains surrounded by her animals, five dogs, two cats, two parrots, chickens, turkeys, and various buffalo, fish and frogs. Any homeless animal would immediately find a loving welcome in Val's home. She was raising and training cutting horses for competition.

Her friends and family will never forget the passion she brought and fine beauty she found in all that she touched.

Valerie is survived by her son, Matthew Dumke; her parents, Ed and Carol Dumke; her sister, Michelle Praggastis; and her two brothers, Ed Dumke and Andrew Dumke.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Val Dumke Endowment fund at the Animal Shelter of the Wood River Valley, Box 1496, Hailey, Idaho.

A celebration of her life is being planned for a later date.

To read more about Valerie's life, visit http://www.valdumke.com.




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