James A. Ventura Sr.

1937 ∼ 2025

James Ventura, age 87, of Kenosha, WI, passed away on February 10th, 2025, in St. Petersburg, FL.A lifelong Kenosha resident, James was born on November 3rd, 1937, and was the son of the late Domenic and Lillian Ventura. He attended St. Mary’s and McKinley Elementary Schools, McKinley Middle School and was a graduate of Bradford High School. He also attended Parkside University.James met the love of his life, Donna Johnson at a Dry Dock Friday night high school dance. On July 19, 1958, at St. George Catholic Church, they were united in marriage. She preceded him in death on August 14, 2016.He served in the United States Naval Reserves, Construction Battalion.James started his career as an operating Engineer working for his Uncle Tony Russo at MAC construction. He worked there for 21 years. He was partners with his cousin Robert Ventura and Bob Grno at Midwest Construction for 7 years. He finished out his career working for contractors in Illinois, retiring in 1998. For over 50 years, James and his wife, Donna, were active members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. They were Eucharistic ministers, participated in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee Enrichment Program for the Engaged as facilitators and speakers, and served on the Engaged Enrichment Board in Milwaukee for several years.In addition to spending time with his family, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and taking care of his yard and garden. He loved to make homemade pasta and try new Italian recipes. James and Donna spent their winters in Largo, Florida for many years. They made many friends that became their second family. He always referred to Florida as his “paradise”. He served on the condominium board for many years and was always willing to lend a helping hand to maintain and improve the property. He was a master woodworker making beautiful furniture for family, friends, and his Florida home.James was blessed with wonderful children, grandchildren, friends, and relatives. “They are lives treasures and joys” (Matthew 6:21).Survivors include his four loving children, James (Linda) Ventura, Jr., Michael Ventura, Christopher Ventura, and Dr. Rita Ventura; former son-in-law, Joseph Kadamian; his grandchildren, Anthony (Alexis) Ventura, Gianna (Derek) Anderson, Jared (Mandi) Ventura, and Liliana Kadamian; his great grandchildren, Dominic and Viviana Ventura, Isla and Ava Anderson, and Kendall Ventura; and his siblings, Mary Joy Hendrickson (Robert Shafer), Thomas (Marie) Ventura, Joanne (Frederick Randal) Czeswik, John (MaryKay) Ventura; Kathy (Richard) Rose; Michael (Stacy) Ventura; Joseph (Veronica) Ventura and William Ventura; sibling in laws, Carol Johnson, Karen (Rochley) Gross, and David (Diane) Johnson; and numerous loving nieces and nephews., He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, brother, Donald Ventura; and brothers-in-law, Gerald Johnson and John Hendrickson.Visitation will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Proko Funeral Home. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church. To live stream the Mass follow this link: https://youtube.com/live/1--6WA7yIx0?feature=share .Interment in All Saints Cemetery will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Shalom Center or Hospice Alliance of Pleasant Prairie would be appreciated by the family.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory Visit & Sign James’ Online Memorial Book At:www.prokofuneralhome.com5111 60th St. (262) 654-3533

Condolences

Jon Lyons February 24, 2025
As Chaplain for American Legion Post 21, Sons of The American Legion Squadron 21, and District 1 out of Kenosha Wisconsin, prayers go out to you all! Remember the gift of knowing this great individual! Salute to you and thank you for your service! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻