James A. “Jimmy” Vandervalk, 61, of Hillsdale, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on May 10, 2019. Born in Fort Jackson, S.C. on July 9, 1957, he is survived by his loving children James, Kevin and his wife Kim, and Michael, mother Charlotte, siblings Robert and his wife Jane, Glenn, Claire, and beloved Lorraine.
Jimmy, a graduate of Pascack Hills High School in Montvale, built his career around his passion for woodworking and construction design. As a young man, with his wife Lorraine, he renovated a 19th century farmhouse and created a beautiful warm and inviting home where they happily raised their three boys and hosted many family gatherings.
While honing his craft renovating homes, Jimmy made evident his visionary talent as a master craftsman. He started Vandervalk Construction and later partnered with his dear friend John, and founded T-V Structural, combining their talents and creating a successful business.
Jimmy’s creativity and artistry is displayed in various venues, including Montclair’s Wellmont Theater and Saddle River’s Wawel Bridge, as well as in many homes throughout the region.
Jimmy was an avid Harley Davidson motorcycle enthusiast. His quest for adventure prompted his participation in several cross country road trips including most every national landmark, as well as other bike excursions. Jimmy also loved watching sports, but he particularly enjoyed watching his boys participate in sporting events. He coached them in Little League and nurtured his youngest son Michael’s passion for fishing. The boys will always have fond memories of their dad.
Jimmy will be remembered for his quick wit and sense of humor, but most of all he leaves us with the memory of a loving father, devoted husband, respectful son and brother, and trusted friend. He will be truly missed by all.
Visiting hours were at the C.C. Van Emburgh Funeral Home in Ridgewood on Tuesday, May 14. A funeral mass was held Wednesday, May 15 at Our Lady of Mercy, Park Ridge.
In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy, the family would appreciate donations to the ALS Association, Greater New York Chapter, 42 Broadway, STE 1724, NY, NY 10004; als-ny.org.
