Verna “Val” Gazdecki
Born June 9, 1926, into a large and loving Italian-American family, “The Valentines,” Verna “Val” Gazdecki brought light, laughter, and loyalty into every corner of her long and remarkable life. She grew up in New York and Michigan, graduating from Fordson High School where she excelled both academically and athletically as a member of the swim team and as a cheerleader. She loved music, dancing, and attending performances by the big bands, including Glenn Miller, Tex Beneke, and Tommy Dorsey.
As a young woman who loved to sing, she caught the attention of actress Martha Raye, who invited her to join her as a vocalist, but she declined believing that her mother would worry about her living the life of an entertainer always on the road.
Her career was as wide-ranging as her interests. She excelled in sales, auditing, and teaching IBM systems; served as Executive Director for the Michigan Chapter of ALSAC (St. Jude’s Research Hospital); and ran the largest volunteer campaign office for President Nixon’s reelection.
Val married the love of her life, George Gazdecki, whom she referred to as “the man among the boys,” and together they raised four children—Jim, Tom, Tina, and Glenn. She taught them to be kind to others and to themselves; to always do their best; and to remember that sometimes you must walk alone to do what is right.
For them, she created and maintained an immaculate, beautiful, welcoming home, prepared delectable meals, served as a Room Mother at school, and showed up as a devoted fan at Little League games. A frequent hostess, she entertained with grace and style, often including those who might otherwise be overlooked.
At home, in Military Hills, Michigan where she and George raised their children, and later in Ormond Beach, Florida, where they enjoyed happy retirement years, Val was admired by her neighbors for her outgoing personality and sense of style in both fashion and entertaining. After George’s passing, she moved to Santa Barbara to be near sons Jim and Glenn, where she spent the last 23 years of her life enjoying bridge and gin rummy, a nightly cocktail and See’s chocolates, and the frequent company of family and friends.
Val had a special affection for the Chumash people and was totally committed to their success with the Santa Ynez casino. In turn, they embraced her warmly, sending a driver, David, each week to bring her to the casino, and arranging multi-day stays—courtesy of her beloved handler, Consuela. It is only fitting that talk persists of a life-sized statue of Val, inscribed “Our Lady of the Slots,” gracing the casino entrance.
She lived the last year and a half at Casa St. James in Bel Air Knolls, where she received incomparable, loving care from Asel Telman and her staff. Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren hold Val in the highest regard, and with love mark the one-year anniversary of her passing from our sight.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to her loyal friend Totsie Best, the compassionate professionals of Central Coast Hospice, and her dedicated physicians, Dr. Joel Brandt and Dr. John Kunz.
She earned her long-sought recognition as The Big Winner and is now at home in the Big Casino in the Sky. Her spirit, humor, and example will remain with us always.
