VALETTE, Henri L.

Wickenburg Sun, Wickenburg, Az December 14, 2005 Henri L. Valette passed away on Dec. 4. He was born Feb. 9, 1916 in Cleveland, Ohio. His family moved to Southern California in 1922. He worked at MGM Studios to put himself through college at UCLA. After graduating, he worked with his father in the family business, Florence Manufacturing Company. During World War II, the business converted to manufacturing parts for major aircraft companies to support the war effort. In 1947, Henri purchased the family business from his father. He became a leader in the manufacturing of beauty salon and barbershop equipment until he sold the business in 1972. He remained active as a business consultant in the Southern California area until retiring with his wife to Eagles Roost Airdrome in Aguila, Ariz., where he continued pursuing his hobby and love of flying. He was a devoted husband and father. He leaves his wife Beth, daughters Renee, Jeanne and Denise, sons Ricky and Gary, 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.