Dennis N. Valentini

Dennis Valentini, a dedicated public servant and beloved family man, passed away on August 9th, 2025 at the age of 71. Born in Camden, New Jersey, on August 1, 1954, he spent his formative years in West Deptford, New Jersey. After graduating from West Deptford High School in 1972, Dennis went on to earn a degree in law enforcement from Eastern Kentucky University in 1976. A Jersey boy found a Seven Mile, Ohio, girl, Tari Sloneker, at Eastern Kentucky University and they married May 28, 1977. In 1979, Dennis began his lifelong commitment to community service by joining the Fairfield Police Department. Throughout his career, he held various roles, including police officer, detective, community resource officer, and park ranger. His passion for serving the community was evident in the numerous initiatives he organized, such as neighborhood block parties and citizens police academies, and in his dedicated efforts to combat substance misuse among local youth. Dennis's commitment didn’t end with his official duties; he often worked overtime at community events, from high school sports to local festivals, earning him the honor of city employee of the year and the first ever Fairfield Police Officer of the Year. A talented athlete, Dennis's early years were shaped by his love for running. Dennis set West Deptford High School records in the 100- and 200-yard dashes. He earned a track scholarship at Eastern Kentucky University. He also proudly represented Ohio police in the International Police Olympics. Later, he brought that same passion for athletics to the next generation by coaching his daughter Christi’s softball teams, his son Brian’s baseball teams, and the track and field teams at Fairfield High School. As his life progressed, Dennis became a man of many interests. He was a talented home chef who would cook for anyone who walked through the door. He loved gardening with his wife, including growing heirloom tomatoes. Dennis was deeply committed to his family, extending his love and support to both his immediate and extended relatives. Every Thanksgiving, he opened his home to 30-40 family members, fostering bonds that cherished shared memories. Embracing the Sloneker family while remaining proud of his Italian Valentini heritage, Dennis's warmth and kindness left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Dennis also loved to share his passion for college and professional sports. He, his family, and his closest friends often traveled far and wide to watch his beloved Phillies, Eagles, Flyers, and Duke Blue Devils. He is survived by his loving wife, Tari, his daughter Christi and her husband Chris of Springfield Township Ohio, his son Brian and his wife Autumn Grace of Minneapolis Minnesota, his mother Josephine Valentini and his sister Denise Pallies of West Deptford, his sister and brother-in laws Gail and David Ruff of Powell Ohio, brother and sister-in laws Gary and Suzanne Sloneker of Monroe Ohio, and his sister-in-law Sue Sloneker, along with his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish his memory. He was proceeded in death by his father Joseph Valentini, brother Nicholas, sister-in-law Claudia Valentini, and his brother-in-law Tim Sloneker. Dennis's legacy of service, love, and dedication will remain in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, Dennis Valentini. Visitation Friday August 15, 2025 at Weigel Funeral Home 980 NW Washington Blvd Hamilton, Ohio 45013 from 12:00pm until the time of the funeral service at 2:00pm. Online condolences may be left at www.weigelfuneralhome.com

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Dennis N. Valentini

August 1, 1954 - August 9, 2025