Luis Valle, 91, of South Richmond Hill, NY passed away on April 8, 2016 with family by his side. Born in Aquadilla, Puerto Rico to Pablo and Celsa Valle on September 9, 1924, one of seven children. After his Father passed away, Luis left school at age 12 and began working to help his family. He later relocated to New York, where he raised his own family.

Always very dedicated, he mastered skills in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing and later in life found a passion for painting landscapes. Luis was a die-hard Mets fan, unless they were playing poorly and then he was a Yankees fan. "Papi" as he was affectionately called, was a kind-hearted, caring, and gentle man. He knew the true meaning of respect and instilled this quality in his children. Luis was quick to offer a helping hand and never expected anything in return. His parenting skills were uncanny, as he never had to raise his voice to his children and they all held him in the highest regard. One of Papi's most valuable lessons was the importance of family, which sometimes extended beyond those who are blood related. His love for his family abounded even though he didn't often show much affection.

Luis is survived by his children, Elba (Freddy) Ponton, Altagracia (Wilson) Paz, and Alfredo Valle; daughter-in-law, Carmen Valle; and grandchildren, Freddy (Melissa) Ponton, Jr., David (Ginna) Ponton, Zoila (Justin) Arnsworth, Jessica Paz, Jennifer Paz, Luis Valle III, Katherine Valle, Rosa Valle, Alfredo (Adrianna) Valle, Jr., and Crystal Valle. Also left to cherish his memory are his great grandchildren, Bryan Ponton, Brenden Ponton, Ella Arnsworth, Jack Arnsworth, Maya Arnsworth, Gabriel Ponton, Alice Ponton, Deven Gonzalez, Jaden Omar, Jacob Valle, Alyssa Valle and Adrian Valle. Luis was also expecting two additional great grandchildren in June.

He was preceded in death by his son, Luis Valle, Jr; and all seven of his siblings.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, April 13, 2016 from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Coral Springs Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, April 14, 2016 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church with burial to follow at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Cemetery.

A tradition that began when Luis' children were small was to ask for their parent's blessing by saying "Bendicion" when entering and departing their presence. This is a tradition that continues in his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Papi, not only do you have our unconditional love, you also have our respect because of the way you lived and loved your life. Bendicion Papi. We love you yesterday, today, tomorrow and always.