John A. Vallini, 71, known as “Doc” to many, died at his residence surrounded by many caring friends on May 15, 2021.
Born on March 9, 1950, in Flatbush, Brooklyn, he was the son of John and Marie (Emilio) Vallini. His parents predeceased him.
John graduated from Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute with a degree in chemistry and began his graduate studies in polymer chemistry at the University of Connecticut at Storrs. Soon after, however, he began his career in photography. After apprenticing with two different New York City photographers, he operated Vallini Productions for 17 years. His clients ranged from Hasbro Toy Company to fashion and makeup ads (Maybelline and Cover Girl). His TV accounts included taking still photos for the movie “The Day After” and appearing on “The Regis Philbin Show” to shoot Regis’ portrait live on the air.
During these years, John spent most of his free time traveling to the Catskills and Adirondacks, honing his fly fishing and fly tying skills. On a fishing trip to the Adirondacks in 1990, he decided to move here shortly after and considered this area his home. He obtained his New York State Department of Environmental Conservation guide’s license and operated Grey Ghost Guides, specializing in fly fishing during the early years of living on Hoel Pond.
John began working at Adirondack Medical Center as an ER tech and found an interest in volunteering. As a member of the Saranac Lake Volunteer Fire Department, he obtained his EMT/paramedic certification and then began 10 years as the medical coordinator for the Olympic Regional Development Authority in Lake Placid. He developed the facility’s standard of patient care with an emphasis on concussion protocols. He was also a critical care RN/paramedic for nine years with North Country Life Flight.
With his desire for knowledge, John continued his medical education and received his AAS degree in nursing from North Country Community College and continued his career at Adirondack Medical Center, Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital and Fletcher Allen Medical Center. He returned to NCCC as a nursing instructor. He was passionate about teaching and enjoyed working with his students in both the classroom and clinical settings.
John was a proud past member of the Saranac Lake Volunteer Fire Department, during which he was part of the local response to 9/11 in New York City. He was also a member of the Saranac Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad and was a current member of the Board of Directors.
John loved riding his motorcycles and frequent trips around the area. His favorite rides were to Eastport, Maine, every fall while visiting friends along the way. He leaves behind his “babies,” Harley and BMW. He also enjoyed good music, food and wine, and all three were included at any party he would host. He felt a bond with animals, both wild and domestic, especially his cats Bentley, Mugsey, Sam, Lulu and Missy.
John cherished his friends and is survived by many, old and new, near and far, and many students, all who remember the good times they had with him. He was a multi-talented, compassionate gentleman and a gentle man who will be missed by many.
Honoring his wishes, there will be no formal services. Memorial donations may be made in John’s memory to Tri-Lakes Humane Society, Holiday Helpers, the Saranac Lake Volunteer Fire Department or the Saranac Lake Volunteer Rescue Squad. Arrangements are in care of the Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake.
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