Eladio ‘Tito’ Valentin
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Eladio Valentin, affectionately known as Tito, whose fiery spirit touched countless lives. Tito passed away in his home on Friday, Oct. 19, 2025 at the age of 55, after a fierce battle with lung cancer. Tito is best known for his larger-than-life personality, his ability to fill a room with his presence, love for his family and passion for food. He lived with great pride, the way he wanted to and always on his own terms.
Tito was born in Brooklyn to Aida Maldonado and Eladio Valentin Sr. on Feb. 13, 1970. He later moved to upstate New York in the early ’90s with his mother and siblings. Tito has worked in dozens of restaurants throughout Saranac Lake and Lake Placid where his love of food has touched the hearts and stomachs of many locals. He was an avid fisher and proud Puerto Rican. Tito loved comics (especially Marvel), “Star Wars,” “In the Heights,” “West Side Story” and “Scarface.” His home was constantly filled with music, dancing and laughter. Tito was always the life of the party and believed in family above all else, whether you were blood or not. Tito leaves behind a legacy that love is best served in a meal and that true growth comes from those who are dedicated to its cause. This legacy will live on in the people who loved him most.
Tito is survived by his loving partner Jennifer Granger, who he had the privilege of sharing eight wonderful years with. He is survived by his children: Rachel Valentin, Leann Valentin, Gabriella Goodman, Amber Salmon, Elyssa Valentin, Alexis Valentin, Christopher Kucipak, Marissa Valentin, Elijah Valentin, Brooklyn Valentin, Lucas Valentin, Corinne “Bingo” Valentin, Elias Valentin and Eladio Valentin. Tito is survived by 10 grandchildren, as well as many nieces, and nephews who all loved him dearly. He is preceded by his mother Aida Maldonado, his uncle Louie Maldonado and brother Hector Rodriguez.
The M. B. Clark, Inc., Funeral Home in Lake Placid is in charge of arrangements. Please visit www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com to share a memory or leave condolences.
A celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date. Any memorials or donations can be made to his partner, Jennifer Granger, his niece Angie Rodriguez, or his children.