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Valerie Rose Kratochvil, a vibrant 16-year-old from Smithtown, New York, passed away suddenly on March 4, 2024.
Born on November 8, 2007, she was a junior at Smithtown High School East, excelling academically and participating in various extracurricular activities.
Valerie was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, known for her warmth, compassion, and dedication. Her untimely passing has left a profound void in the community.
Early Life and Family
Valerie was born to parents Margaret and Kenneth Kratochvil and was the older twin by two minutes to her sister, Laurie. She shared a close bond with her family, including her Aunt Susan and Uncle Scott Sedacca, and cousins David and Kristen Sedacca. Valerie was predeceased by her grandparents Marilyn and Kenneth Kratochvil, Ann and Matthew Fee, and her great-grandfather Vincent Petrolino. Her family remembers her as a light who brought joy and happiness to everyone she encountered.
Academic and Extracurricular Achievements
At Smithtown High School East, Valerie was an exemplary student, maintaining straight A’s with the aspiration of becoming a pharmacist. She was a member of the Music, French, and Social Studies Honor Societies and was on track to join the National Honor Society. Valerie’s passion for singing led her to participate in the school’s choir program, NYSSMA for three years, and the All County Choir for two years. She was also an athlete, playing on the Varsity Winter and Spring Track teams, Varsity Field Hockey, and participating in the Athletes Helping Athletes Club. Her involvement in these activities showcased her dedication and love for sports and music.
Personal Interests
Outside of her academic and athletic pursuits, Valerie was an avid reader, often seeking out new books to immerse herself in. She had a passion for cooking and baking, and enjoyed fashion, often shopping for clothes, curling her hair, and experimenting with makeup. Valerie was also a skilled skier, frequently vacationing with her family in Vermont, Lake Tahoe, the Caribbean, and Disney World. Her diverse interests and talents made her a well-rounded individual who touched the lives of many.
Community Impact and Memorials
In the wake of her passing, the community rallied to support the Kratochvil family. A GoFundMe campaign was organized by Mallory Guerin, director of Long Island Field Hockey, to assist with funeral expenses and other needs. The campaign highlighted Valerie’s roles as a daughter, sister, granddaughter, cousin, friend, teammate, and more, emphasizing the profound impact she had on those around her. The fundraiser underscored the community’s commitment to honoring Valerie’s memory and supporting her family during this difficult time.
To honor Valerie’s legacy, Smithtown High School East hosted a “Togetherness Tournament” on October 6, 2024. The event featured field hockey teams from Smithtown High School West, Bay Shore High School, and Patchogue Medford High School. Approximately $1,700 was raised, with all proceeds going toward a field hockey memorial scholarship established in Valerie’s name. This tournament not only celebrated Valerie’s love for field hockey but also fostered a sense of unity and remembrance within the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who was Valerie Rose Kratochvil?
Valerie was a 16-year-old junior at Smithtown High School East in New York. She was known for her academic excellence, athleticism, musical talent, and compassionate nature.
2. What were Valerie’s academic and extracurricular achievements?
Valerie maintained straight A’s and aspired to become a pharmacist. She was a member of multiple honor societies, participated in the school’s choir and NYSSMA, and was an active athlete in track and field hockey.
3. How did the community honor Valerie’s memory?
The community organized a GoFundMe campaign to support her family and hosted a “Togetherness Tournament” to raise funds for a memorial scholarship in her name.
4. What were some of Valerie’s personal interests?
Valerie enjoyed reading, cooking, baking, fashion, and skiing. She often vacationed with her family in various locations, including Vermont and Lake Tahoe.
5. How can one contribute to Valerie’s memorial fund?
Donations can be made through the GoFundMe campaign organized in her memory. The funds assist the Kratochvil family with expenses and support the memorial scholarship established in her name.
Conclusion
Valerie Rose Kratochvil, a 16-year-old from Smithtown, NY, passed away on March 4, 2024. A high-achieving student at Smithtown High School East, she excelled in academics, athletics, and music.
Valerie was passionate about reading, baking, fashion, and skiing, leaving a lasting impact on those around her. The community honored her memory through a GoFundMe campaign and a field hockey memorial scholarship.
A “Togetherness Tournament” raised funds to support her legacy and celebrate her love for sports. Valerie’s kindness and dedication continue to inspire all who knew her.
