On the morning of June 14, 2017, Valerie Marie Britt-Kalberg, affectionately known as Val, passed away peacefully at home in Carbondale, Colorado, surrounded by her loving family. Throughout Val’s life, her courageous heart was always close to her family and friends. From California to New Jersey to Colorado to Washington State, Val brought people together and spread happiness. During her brave battle with cancer, Val was constantly supported by her family and friends from far and wide. Val’s kindness was contagious, just like her smile. She will be dearly missed by the many people who loved her deeply.

Val was born on August 6th, 1949 in Santa Monica, California, to Eugene and Alice von Flotow. Though Val lived many places, the Pacific Ocean and beaches of Southern California always felt like her home.

For Val, no obstacle was insurmountable and no challenge was too hard. As a child, she overcame polio and grew into a great athlete. While raising her children, Mike and Jamie, as a single mother, she never compromised and continued to develop her professional career. Val never missed a chance to support Mike and Jamie in their many ambitious activities. In Washington State, she is admired as an inspiration to hundreds of Real Estate professionals. As Val faced the biggest challenge of her life, cancer, she remained hopeful. Val’s life reminds us to face challenges with grace and joy.

Val adored her grandchildren and she took great pride in being “Grammy” to Lily, Shane, Ella, Fisher, and Spencer Britt. Val moved her home to ensure she was a part of her grandchildren’s daily life. Whenever she could, Val brought her grandchildren on fun trips. One of her great joys at the end of her life was holding her new granddaughter, Spencer (who she named by the way!).

Val is preceded in death by her parents Eugene and Alice von Flotow, her first husband Lynn Britt, and her beloved grandson Fisher. Val’s legacy continues through her loving children, Mike Britt (Jennifer) and Jamie Britt (Charlie), her grandchildren, her husband Rodney Kalberg, and her siblings, Charles, Gene, Florence, Walter, and Robert. Val also leaves behind many close friends, nieces, nephews and cousins across the country.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the many doctors and nurses who cared for Val as well as the support they received from Pathfinders. Please consider making a donation to Pathfinders, PO Box 11799, Aspen, CO 81612. A memorial service is planned for July 22, 2017 at the Aspen Chapel at 4:00 PM. A reception will follow at the home of Michael Britt and Jennifer Davis. All are invited to celebrate the life of Valerie.