Thelma Leona Valletta

ROCHESTER, MINN: Thelma Leona Valletta, 87, passed away peacefully Thursday, March 14, 2013 at St. Marys Hospital. Thelma was born September 17, 1925 in Parkersburg , IA to Hiko and Lena (Duisman) Smith. She grew up in Rochester and graduated from the Rochester High School in June of 1943. She was accepted into the U.S. Public Health Services Nurse Corps in 1944 and graduated from the Kahler Hospital School of Nursing as a registered nurse in 1947. After graduation she moved to the east coast, working in a hospital in Maryland before returning to Rochester in 1955. She worked at Mayo Clinic for the remainder of her nursing career, retiring after 31 years in 1987. Thelma was a devoted mother and grandmother. She enjoyed traveling, playing golf, playing cards and trips to the area casinos with friends and family. Thelma is survived by her daughter, Michele Valletta (Jim Spencer); sister, Marge Ryan; daughter-in-law, Cindy Valletta; three grandchildren, Jason, Bryanne, and Nicole Valletta and great-granddaughter, Addison Valletta. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hiko and Lena Smith; brothers, Kenneth and Frank Smith, and her beloved son, John Valletta. A private family and friends celebration will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to Family Service Rochester 1110 6th St. NW Rochester, MN 55901 or the Womens Shelter of Rochester PO Box 457, Rochester, MN 55903. Arrangements entrusted to Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN 55901. (507) 289-3600