Leroy Venters

Devoted Husband, Father, and Grandfather -

Leroy Venters, age 86 of Ridgway went to be with the Lord on October 19, 2015 in the St. Mary's Medical Center in Evansville, IN. Leroy leaves behind a legacy of Love and friendships for many of us. Leroy was born in Mill Shoals, IL on May 14, 1929. He worked all of his life: as a lineman, in sawmills and oil fields, driving a semi. He delivered ice many years ago, worked in Ridgway as a young man at Aydt Brothers Store starting out as a delivery and stock man, working his way up to being a butcher. Leroy is well known for being the best Ford tractor mechanic in this part of the country, working for Charlie Mitchell's Ford Tractor dealership for 14 years, but loved and worked on them the rest of his life. He retired from Peabody Eagle #2 mine in Shawneetown at the age of 64.

From that point, Leroy strove to live even more. He and his wonderful wife of 67 years, the former Joan (Borah) Venters whom he married June 26, 1948, devoted their retirement years to taking care of great grandchildren whenever they had a chance. They also travelled to Canada, New York, Washington DC, Seattle, Utah and Nevada, to name a few. They visited family in Oklahoma, West Virginia and anywhere their car would take them. Many adventures included siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Leroy had a quick smile and handshake for everyone he came across. He was a great friend and neighbor; and an example of what everyone strives to be.

Leroy leaves behind the love of his life, Joan. For over 67 years, they walked through life hand in hand up until the end. He is also survived by 2 children; Danny (Pam) Venters and Roberta Funkhouser; 5 grandchildren: Treva Bandy, Stephanie (Jeff) Disney, Brent (Brigit) Venters, Chris (Megan) Funkhouser, and Chad (Erin) Venters; 8 great grandchildren: Izak and Erick Bandy, Gage and Harley Disney, Levi Venters, Joselyn, Anison and Blaine Funkhouser. He is also survived by his brother, Bill (Ruth) Venters, and sisters Mary (Boone) Dagley, Jean (Bob) Taylor and Ann Sarks along with many nieces, nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, LeRoyal Ivan (Durb) and Mary Frances Venters, son in law, Joe Funkhouser and a brother in law, Jack Sarks.

A celebration of his life and love will be on Friday, October 23, 2015 at the Cox & Son Funeral Home in Ridgway from 4:00PM to 7:00PM and his funeral service will be on Saturday, October 24, 2015 at the funeral home at 10:00AM where the family will receive friends after 9:00AM. Interment will follow in the Jackson Cemetery near Ridgway.

You may leave a note of comfort to the family at www.coxandson.com