BARRE- Frank "Mimo" Valente, 99, a long time Barre resident, died peacefully June 28, 2016, in the Gardner Nursing Home, with his wife Lucy by his side. They would have been married 74 years on July 11th, and she often referred to her husband "Mimo" as the "best guy in the world". Mimo started from tough and humble beginnings, son of Italian immigrants looking for a better life, which is just what he did. In search for the American dream, Mimo worked for many years at the Barre Wool Combing Co. Ltd. but he was best known for his unconditional love for his family and music. Mimo loved his surroundings and loved the land, hunting and fishing for many years, and worked in his garden until he was 97. Throughout his life he was involved with his community and donated his time to music in Barre. He started teaching his son Gary the trombone at 8 years old, he performed for many years with Mimo's Band, and was awarded recognition by the Massachusetts House of Representatives for 75 years of making beautiful music. Mimo is survived by his wife Lucy Valente; 2 sisters Lucy Mariolas and Mary Hartley; 2 sons Lewis Valente and Gary Valente; a grandson Free Valente; a great grandson Shay Valente, and a great granddaughter Sakeena Valente. Mimo is predeceased by his brother Loreto Valente; a brother Louis Valente ; 3 sisters Angie Valente, Jennie Valente and Carolina DeLibero. Mimo was loved and revered as a "stand up guy" and someone who "always took care of business". Mimo was a man who gave endless love and unconditional support to his family, friends, and community from the beginning to the end. Mimo will be deeply missed, however his spirit will live on for ever. Mimo's funeral service will be held on Saturday,July 2, 2016 at 12:30pm in Pillsbury Funeral Home 96 S.Barre Rd. Barre . A calling hour will be held Saturday from 11am-12:15pm prior to the service. Burial will follow in St.Josephs Cemetery. Please visit: Pillsburyfuneralhome.com