"I did not really plan to speak today. "I was not convinced I'd be able to. And I'm still not quite sure I can get through this, so please bear with me." Valentino, you were the person I spoke to, not the person I spoke about. You were beside me when words were not needed. Life was not always perfect, but it was real. One day at a time, for more than 40 years, all strung together, became extraordinary because we were living them together. This is what I'll miss about you most. I know how many people loved you, and I'm grateful for that, but what we shared was ours alone, and I will hold that carefully for the rest of my life. I don't say goodbye today, I say thank you. For choosing me, for walking with me, and for leaving me changed forever. Thank you."
"The last words we said to each other? 'I love you.' It will be impossible for me not to remember. I am devastated."
Valentino Garavani died on 19 January at age 93, peacefully in his Roman home surrounded by family. A funeral occurred at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs in Rome on 23 January. Attendees included Giancarlo Giammetti and Vernon Bruce Hoeksema, Valentino's companion of 40 years. Hoeksema addressed mourners, saying he had not planned to speak and was unsure he could. He described their life together as real and extraordinary because they lived it together, and he promised to hold their shared memories carefully. He revealed their last words were "I love you" and said he is devastated.
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