Valerie D. Aerni

Valerie was born on June 2, 1957 in Sacramento, California to Verlyn Paul Aerni Sr. and Albertine Charlotte Damewood. Irene Aerni and Glen Damewood would help raise her and were like second parents to Valerie. She would graduate from high school and later receive a master’s degree. Valerie would work as behavior specialist at the Salem State Hospital in Oregon. She was passionate about her work and the patients she cared for. Besides work, she loved paint and draw, make pottery, complete leather works and design jewelry. She enjoyed being artistic. Valerie would retire from her work and reside in Salem until her passing at age 63 on November 17, 2020. She was preceded in death by  her siblings, Teri Jo Trust, Dale Damewood and Wayne Damewood; she is survived by her only daughter, Ashley (Michael) McGuire; grandchildren, Caleb S. McGuire, Kendra Michael Peanut Butter McGuire, Baylan Avery Frank McGuire, Boxleigh Michael Larimae McGuire; siblings, Verlyn Paul Aerni, Jr., Bruce Aerni, Robert Joshua Aerni, Rick Edward, Charlotte Down, Laura Lee Melton, Glen Damewood, Edward Damewood, Brian Damewood in addition to several nephews, nieces and other extended family.