Valerie Benacquista, 64, passed away peacefully at home on May 15, 2017 surrounded by her loving family and friends.

She was born in Saratoga, NY on April 8, 1953.

Val was the daughter of the late Bernard Haley and Charlotte White. She was a loving mother to two beautiful daughters Maria Benacquista of Schenectady NY and Sally Benacquista of Ravena NY.

She was predeceased by her loving husband Salvatore Benacquista. The love they had for each other was one that no one could break. Vals passion for life was her family and taking care of everyone she could. She had a heart of gold. She was the owner of Gar-bo’s luncheonette for many years and was most recently employed by the Colonie Diner. She enjoyed working hard and put love in everything she did. Val also had a pure love for animals as we always called her mother nature.

She is survived by her two daughters, two sisters Debra Crammond and Sandra Haley, two brothers Joseph White and Patrick White. Val had seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Valerie is also survived by her boyfriend of many years, Frank Palumbo.

Calling hours will be held at New Comer Funerals & Cremations, 343 New Karner Road, Albany, NY 12205, on Friday, May 19, 2017 from 11:00am-12:30pm, with a service to immediately follow.

Any donations can be made to any cancer research as we still fight for a cure.