Batavia - Josephine "Josie" Bordinaro VanValkenburg, 72, of Batavia, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, June 22, 2023, surrounded by her loving family after a long battle with a rare autoimmune disease.
Josie was born August 10, 1950, daughter of the late Sam & Pauline (Crimando) Bordinaro. She is survived by Gary VanValkenburg, her devoted husband and caregiver; her children, Jessica (Alan) Stewart of Rochester, Jamie (Carah) Stewart of Powder Springs, GA, Joseph (Krystal) Stewart of Manchester, VT, Michelle (Marc) Johnson of Oakfield, and Orazio (Carla) Slivano of Augusta, GA. Her ten grandchildren (Bailey, Trevor, Zach, Cameron, Tanner, McKenna, Jaina, Brady, Payge, and Julien) and four great-grandchildren (Jay, Braxton, Valentina, and soon-to-arrive Harper) were the lights and smiles of her life. Also surviving is her brother, Sam Bordinaro Jr. of Massachusetts.
Josie retired from Lapp Insulator in Leroy, NY after a long career, while holding many various positions during her time there. Once retirement came, it was time for her and Gary to rekindle their love for each other, and for riding their Harley Davidsons together. Josie enjoyed many week-long road trips across the USA on her Harley, loving the freedom of the open road and wind in her face with Gary and her new HOG (Genesee County Harley Owners Group) family.
A devoted sports mom, she was at the ball field or hockey rink for all of the early morning practices, out-of-town tournaments, late night rides home, as well as always being the loudest one in the stands cheering you on win or loss, Josie was a dedicated and loving mother. Sundays were for family and watching her beloved team, the Buffalo Bills.
In keeping with Josie's wishes, there will be no services. She will be laid to rest in Western New York National Cemetery in Pembroke. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to Crossroads House, PO Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021. Arrangements were entrusted to the care of H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Batavia. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.
