Joseph Ventura

Joseph “Joey” Ventura, lovingly known as "Fuzzy" to some, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 11, 2025. Joe was born on November 17, 1933, in Chicago to Juan and Lucinda Martinez Ventura.

Joseph attended Goodrich Elementary, Creiger, and graduated from McKinley High School, where he excelled in basketball. He continued his education at Goshen Mennonite College before returning to Chicago to marry the love of his life, Oralia, affectionately called Rae. A lifelong basketball lover, he played competitively in high school, college, and local Chicago leagues. Something Joseph immensely enjoyed in later life was walking along the Villa Park section of the Illinois Prairie Path, often joined by two friends Kevin and Andrea.

Joseph's faith played a central role in Joseph’s life. He was a devoted member of the Mennonite Church in Chicago, attending Iglesia Menonita, later named Second Mennonite and then Lawndale Mennonite. He was also a member of the Lawndale Mennonite Choir, sharing his love of music with the congregation and the extended Mennonite Community.

Joseph is preceded in death by his parents, Juan and Lucinda, his brothers Peter, Frank, and Natty. He is survived by his loving wife, Rae Ventura, and their children: Joseph Jr. (Theresa Humbertson), Karen (Sam Kalen), and Glenn; proud grandfather to Olivia and Gabriella Ventura, Joshua Kalen, and Mason Ventura; his siblings John (Hope Sanchez), Tranquilinio (Corrine Bush), Theresa (the late Rudy) Hernandez, Esther (Martin) Garay, David( the late Susan), and Daniel (Louise); a host of nieces and nephews, other extended family members and friends also survive.

A celebration of Joseph’s life is planned at a later date, in August. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to St Jude's Children's Research Hospital for Cancer.