He was born in Cervinara, Italy, on March 31, 1931, the beloved son of Bernardo and Chiarina (Ricci) Valente. At the age of 24, he moved to Australia and worked very hard as a mason. Six years later, he returned to Italy to reunite with his fiancée, Filomena Valente. They were married on May 28, 1961, and together they built their life and family in Rutland, Vermont.

Mr. Valente worked as a master carpenter for many years before he began his own business, Carmine Valente and Son Construction. He was proud to serve those who called upon his services and his meticulous work and perfection was appreciated by many. He retired from the work he loved in 2007.

He enjoyed his Sunday afternoons playing cards and bocce with his close friends, meeting them at the Italian American Club in Rutland. He was a proud member of the Old Timers Bocce Team that won many tournaments.

He served in the Italian Army and was a member of the Italian Aid Society and Christ the King Church in Rutland.

He loved working in his garden and taking care of his home. But most of all, he cherished his family for whom he always put ahead of himself. He was happiest when sitting down to a meal with all of them around the table.

Mr. Valente is survived by his loving wife of 46 years who he affectionately called “my sweetie pie;” four children, Chiarina “Kerry” Valente of Rutland, Guisseppina “JoJo” Valente of Danby, Bernardo “Bernie” Valente of Castleton and Carmen Valente of Troy, New York; four grandchildren, Eileen, Alea, Lacey and Carmine. He left one brother, Guiseppe Valente, four sisters, Domenica Valente, Concetta Valente, Angelina Valente and Amalia Valente, and an uncle, Angelo Valente, all of Italy; three brothers, Umberto Valente, Ulysses Valente and Angelo Valente of Australia; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Clifford Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 18, 2008, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Christ the King Church on Wednesday, March 19, 2008, at 11:00 a.m.