Benjamin O. Valles

Benjamin O. Valles, 85, of West Main Road, Portsmouth, RI, passed away on Thursday, March 4, 2010 at the V.A. Regional Medical Center in Providence. Born in New Bedford, MA on October 7, 1924, he was the son of the late John E. and Virginia Oliveira Valles.Mr. Valles was an A.B. Seaman/Tankerman for most of his life. As a US Merchant Marine Sailor, he served during World War II and was present on day two of the D-Day invasion. In addition to his wife, Matilda C. Valles, he is survived by his children, Valerian Valles and Tracey Bowen, both of Portsmouth, RI; his brothers, Walter Valles of California, Bobby Valles of Massachusetts, Clarkie Valles of Colorado, Johnny Valles of Rhode Island and William Valles of Florida; his sisters, Stella Pires and Eileen Fernandes, both of Massachusetts; two grandchildren, Skyler P. Valles and Brenna R. Bowen; and many nieces and nephews. A gathering and celebration of his life will be held at a future day and time to be announced.