Charles R Venneman, born April 11, 1922, passed at the age of 97 on Friday January 17th, 2020.

Charles lived a colorful life. Born seventh of nine children,  his grade school years were marked by dealing with life during the depression in the northern Missouri town of Chillicothe.   In high school for the Chillicothe Hornets he lettered in 2 sports, football and wrestling, at the meager weight of 115 pounds. He was also well known in the area for boxing prowess as he competed in the amateur golden gloves competition, besides other nefarious activities. Some of his early income was supplemented by shooting pool at the local pubs. But small town life was interrupted with WWII, as he and three of his brothers were drafted into the service.  Charles became part of the 19th Armored Infantry Division where he earned 2 Bronze Stars and ribbons for marksmanship. While overseas his final award was the Purple Heart sustained from injuries incurred from mortar fire.  Upon returning to the states he began a 34 year association with Firestone Inc, first in Chillicothe, then St Joseph, Missouri and finally opening a prototypically designed Firestone store at 75th and Wornall in 1964 which still is one of the regions most productive businesses.  He owned/managed that enterprise until retirement.

He is survived by Frances (Rinehart) of 67yrs marriage, sons Charles R II and Stephen and

daughter Tamera (Vestal). He was closest to two of his grandchildren, Dominique (Vestal) and 

Gabrielle (Vestal) and has numerous nephews, nieces and grand nephews and nieces.    All three of his children were given the opportunity to attend parochial grade school and  high school and all three advanced to extended education with college and beyond.  He was always proud of their accomplishments.  Charles was never without a joke, innuendo, saying, or song.  Gatherings most often centered around his humor.  These last several years were difficult for him as his independence was severely hampered. That limitation never diminished his strong family values.  He fought diligently to be as active as possible even by attending a Notre Dame vs Air Force Football game in Colorado despite significant pulmonary compromise.  His comorbidities

could frighten most in the medical profession if they didn’t understand his fervor.  But finally the energy to combat all these issues was overwhelming.    He is and will always be MISSED and LOVED.

Services in commemoration are as follows: 

Rosary:  Thursday January 23rd 5 pm at Porter’s Funeral Home (8535 Monrovia, Lenexa)

Visitation: 5:30-7pm

Mass:   Friday January 24th 10 am at Holy Trinity Catholic Church (13615 W 92nd, Lenexa)

Burial,  Friday, January 24 th  2pm at Resthaven Memorial, Chillicothe, Mo

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church.