 TONEY, VALERIE Age 66, died peacefully on June 24th surrounded by loving family members. She was born October 30, 1947 in Lihue, Hawaii to Janet and Bill Toney. She grew up in Artesia and Aztec, New Mexico. As a young woman, Valerie was recognized as co-valedictorian of the 1965 Aztec High School class, delegate to Girls State, and representative from New Mexico at Girls Nation. After being a dedicated young Mom, Valerie received her Bachelor's Degree in Chemical Engineering from California State University Long Beach where she was once again recognized as class valedictorian. She began her career as an engineer in the petroleum refining industry and then transitioned to hazardous material management when she formed her own consulting firm in the 1980's. Her career ended with her retirement from the Los Angeles Fire Department in 2007. Valerie was a strong, energetic, fearless woman - a good mother, a loving sister, and a dedicated grandmother. Her beautiful soprano voice was appreciated by many. Valerie was preceded in death by her brother Bryan and her granddaughter Faith. She will be missed by her three children Rex Zumwalt, Jeffrey Zumwalt (Lorri Zumwalt), and Genevieve Zumwalt; her four grandchildren Jeremy, Tyler, Shelby, and Hannah; sisters Jenilee Woodward (Bill Woodward) & Stephanie Arnold (Gene Arnold); her brother Robert Chinn; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family extends its appreciation to the employees of Brookdale Place and Hospice New Mexico for their loving care. A memorial service is planned for July 12th at Hope in the Desert Episcopal Church at 2:00 pm.
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