N. Grosvenordale, CT: Mary Ellen Valentino, 59, of Marshall St., passed away on Monday, May 2nd, in UConn John Dempsey Hospital, Farmington, CT, after an illness.

She leaves her beloved husband of 21 years, Robert Grochowski; her son, Gary L. Leblanc of NC; her father, Robert Valentino and his wife Beth of NC; her mother, Pauline Langley of MA; her three brothers, Warren Valentino and his wife Debbie of ME, Joel Imbody and his wife Lisa of NC and Mike Imbody and his wife Caroline of MA; her three sisters, Helen Boyle of MA, Theresa Stamatakis and her husband "Stemy" of MA and Debbie Amantea of GA; her best friend of 34 years Michelle Sloan; many nieces, nephews and her dog "Lilly".

Mary Ellen was born in Worcester and graduated from Worcester Boys Trade, class of 1980. She was proud to be the first woman to graduate from the Worcester Boys Trade Automotive Program.  Mary Ellen enjoyed riding her motorcycle, watching hummingbirds and butterflies in her yard, and spending time with her beloved dog "Lilly".  She also loved spending time with Michelle and her children and grandchildren.

Calling hours for Mary Ellen will be held on Friday, May 20 ^th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge. A funeral service will follow in the funeral home at 7:00 PM. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Mary Ellen's name to UConn Health, Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center, 263 Farmington Ave. Farmington, CT 06030.