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Created in 2013, Skate Guard Blog explores the overlooked, forgotten, and underappreciated corners of figure skating history - from little-known stories to fresh perspectives on famous skaters, eras, and events. There’s always something new to discover, so grab a cup of coffee and glide into the rich, fascinating history of the world’s most beloved winter sport.

Val Valentine

 Howard Lloyd 'Val' Valentine

May 15, 1950-April 4, 1993


Born in the village of Gowanda, New York, Val Valentine moved to San Francisco and took up skating recreationally while working as a hairstylist. He passed away on April 4, 1993 at the age of forty-two.

Val's obituary from the "Bay Area Reporter": "Val was an artist, woodworker, baker, botanist, geologist, musician, tailor, bonsai expert, astrologer, musical historian, gardener, ice skater and florist. He spoke French with a western New York accent and loved London and Venice as much as he loved Dvorak, Debussy and Shubert. His house was full of angel images and sculptures, as well as real ones. He told us of his life, complained quite a bit, and listened to our stories, while he shaped our hair into the cuts, curls and colors befitting the fashions of the last 20 years. Val favored cats, kids, strawberries, cigarettes, Yosemite, muscular thighs, and ice cream. He was our confidant, friend and partner in life. He was a gift to us all, and will not be forgotten during our own journeys. His partner Kevin, Ruth-Anne and Wesley will miss him the most. He died peacefully at home on April 4, 1993, Palm Sunday, surrounded by his loving family he created with his enormous heart, beautiful smile and hearty laugh."

*Source for inclusion: Obituaries, Bay Area Reporter, April 15, 1993

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