| Date of Birth | March 24, 1936 |
| Passed Away | April 23, 2026 |
| Service Date | May 24, 2026 |
| Service Time | 1-4 p.m. |
| Service Location | Bath V.F.W |
Valerie Mehlenbacher-Tears
Valerie Mehlenbacher-Tears, age 90, passed away peacefully on Thursday (April 23, 2026), after a long and courageous battle with dementia.
Born on March 24, 1936, Valerie lived a life centered on love, family, and resilience. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose presence brought comfort and strength to those around her. Valerie was very active and found joy in life’s simple pleasures—playing cards, enjoying picnics, and, most of all, spending time surrounded by her beloved family. Valerie had a wonderful sense of humor and always knew how to make those around her laugh. She also had a deep love for old country music, which brought her much joy throughout her life.
Valerie dedicated over 40 years of her career to North American Phillips Lighting (formerly Westinghouse), where she was known for her strong work ethic and commitment. She was also an active member of the Pulteney Ladies Auxiliary for many years, where she built lasting friendships and contributed to her community.
She is survived by her six loving children: Florence (John) Updike, Lawrence Mehlenbacher, Doris Gilbert (Jack Ravis), Norman Edwin Mehlenbacher, Brian (Kelly) Mehlenbacher, and Norma (Russell) Hall. Valerie’s legacy continues through her 12 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she cherished deeply.
She was predeceased by the love of her life, her husband, Norman Charles Mehlenbacher, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and partnership.
Valerie is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends and extended family members who will remember her kindness, strength, and enduring love.
The family will be holding a Celebration of Life from 1-4 p.m. SUNDAY (May 24, 2026), at the Bath VFW.
The Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, 35 Main St., HAMMONDSPORT is honored to assist Valerie’s family with the arrangement.
Online condolences or remembrances of Valerie are welcome at bishopdesanto.com or on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home.
So sorry for your loss. I will always remember her smile. Prayers, Condolences & Love
Val always had a smile on her face especially when in the presence of her loving husband Larry Tears. He doted on her and she shined and glowed when he did. He will no doubt miss her and the wonderful memories and trips they made together. We take comfort that they will one day be reunited in heaven with God and will be able to spend eternity together without the trouble of earthly drama and unnecessary hatred.
Val always had a smile on her face. Especially when her husband Larry Tears doted on and pampered her. We find peace in knowing they will be together again in heaven for all time and eternity. God will reunite them in glory and bring them back together.
I’m so glad I finally got to meet Val after so many years and spend time with her! She was so special to me ❤️I loved talking to her and her sense of humor, her kind heart, and seeing her laugh. My sincere condolences to all of my cousins. I know how much she loved you all!!
Aunt Val – I love you! ❤️ Every memory I have is one of friendliness, interest in others, and kindness. She reminded me a lot of my dad – their laughter sharing memories of the past together was contagious. I also loved her tender spiritual side – she loved the Lord and her family. She takes with her many memories and connections to the past – but leaves behind a legacy of family love. 🙏🏻