Hesperia’s beloved pizza legend leaves a lasting slice of history
George Bajalieh / Valentino’s Pizzeria (Courtesy Family)Hesperia, California (Our Hesperia) – Valentino’s Pizzeria faces a profound loss as founder George Bajalieh died at age 73 on July 15, 2025, leaving behind over four decades of dough, sauce and community spirit at 13567 Main Street in Hesperia. Valentino’s Pizzeria has long been a cornerstone of Hesperia life, and the news of his passing is felt deeply across the High Desert.
A Life Built Around Pizza and Community
George Said Bajalieh was born July 16, 1951, and spent his life perfecting the art of pizza. In 1982, he opened the first Valentino’s Pizzeria, inspired by his Lebanese heritage and his passion for bringing people together over a hot slice.
Through hard work and unwavering dedication, he grew a single storefront into a local landmark known for its hand-tossed crust, secret tomato sauce, and generous hospitality. Regulars still share stories of how George would greet children with extra cheese and neighborhoods with free slices on cooler nights.
Over the years, his home like pizza parlor became a beacon for families, high school students and travelers seeking a taste of home. Under his stewardship, Valentino’s expanded its menu—adding gourmet salads, wings and calzones—yet never lost the simple charm that made it a gathering place. For George, every pizza was more than food; it was a way to connect, comfort and celebrate life’s everyday moments.
Remembering George Bajalieh
Friends and longtime customers describe George as a warm, generous soul whose laughter echoed through the pizzeria. “He knew every name and never missed an opportunity to make you feel part of the family,” recalls longtime customer Maria Torres, who celebrated her wedding rehearsal dinner at Valentino’s. “His kindness was as famous as his pizza.” Staff members remember his tireless work ethic—often prepping dough at dawn before opening—and his insistence on quality ingredients, from imported Italian olive oil to fresh basil.
George’s legacy extends beyond the oven. He championed local youth sports, sponsoring little league teams and offering pizza nights as fundraisers, and he backed community events from school carnivals to holiday parades. “He was more than a business owner,” says a local long time friend. “He was a community ambassador who believed in giving back.”
Family Vows to Keep Legacy Alive
Following his passing, the Bajalieh family has pledged to carry on George’s vision. His sons, JJ and Tony along Ilias and George, will continue the daily operations, working alongside her mother, Samira, to preserve the recipes and traditions her father held dear. “Dad poured his heart into every pie.” “We promise to honor his memory by keeping Valentino’s warm, welcoming and true to his standards.” The family plans to maintain the pizzeria’s original layout and menu, while exploring a few of George’s restaurant ideas that JJ and Tony had been developing in his final months.
Impact on Hesperia’s Small–Business Landscape
Valentino’s Pizzeria has long stood as a model of small–business success in Hesperia, inspiring entrepreneurs with George’s personal touch and community focus. His passing has prompted local business owners to reflect on his mentorship and collaboration. “George showed us that a small business can be both profitable and deeply rooted in the community,”
Local officials also praised George’s contributions. Hesperia School Board President Eric Swanson “The first time my path crossed with George was in the mid-1990s, when he owned Valentino’s Pizza in Victorville. I encouraged George to relocate to Hesperia, which he did, opening his first restaurant on Main Street across the freeway. Later, I urged him to move into the Major building along the aqueduct, where Valentino’s is located today.”
Community Remembers and Responds
In the days following the news, social media feeds filled with photos of piping-hot pies and handwritten notes—a testament to George’s impact. Customers young and old shared memories of birthday celebrations, first dates and Friday night rituals at Valentino’s. “George had great respect and love for our local law enforcement and fire fighters.” said Swanson.
Looking Ahead: A Recipe for Resilience
Though grief runs deep, the spirit of George Bajalieh endures. The Bajalieh family and longtime staff are already working on limited–edition pies inspired by his favorite childhood flavors, set to debut this fall. Meanwhile, the pizzeria’s famous smell of garlic, basil and melting cheese continues to draw neighbors eager to share a memory, story or slice.
Valentino’s remains open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with dine-in, take-out and delivery options. The storefront at 13567 Main Street still shines under the same red awning, reminding every passerby that a slice of George’s passion—and his promise to keep Hesperia smiling—lives on.
A funeral service for George will be held Thursday, July 24, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Desert View, 11478 AMARGOSA RD, VICTORVILLE, CA 92392. Following the funeral service will be a graveside service from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM at External Service Location, 11500 Amargosa Rd, Victorville, CA 92392.
Contributions to the GoFundMe page: In Loving Memory of George Bajalieh.
