Edward Joseph Venturi

Passed away peacefully at home on December 24, 2010 surrounded by loved ones. Ed was a devoted husband to wife Evelyn, a loving father to Pamela Cowan, Teresa (Paul) Hentz; and predeceased by beloved son, Michael; cherished grandfather to Stephen Cowan and Gina Cowan-Wilkes (Wes); step-grandfather to Nichole (Peter) Skalaski and Erin (Evan) Horoschak; great step-grandfather to Stella Skalski. A native San Franciscan of Italian descent, Ed was born to Rico and Mary on New Years Eve, 1927. His family moved to Santa Rosa in 1936 where Ed attended St. Rose School, Santa Rosa High, and then went on to the Santa Rosa Junior College. He developed a crush on "that really cute chick" who sat directly in front of him in his chorus classes. Being too shy to ask Evelyn Rohrer out, he sent a friend to do it for him. She replied "Oh, yes!" and those two words fired the sparks that ignited a love that has lasted for 58 years. In 1948, Ed went into the restaurant business with his parents. Long time local residents will remember their restaurant, Marico's, on Old Redwood Highway, now the popular dining spot, Cricklewood. Being in a band, the guests were often entertained by Ed's singing and accordion playing. Ed taught the accordion and later in life became a student of the organ through the Music For Life Club. Not only a music lover, Ed will be remembered by family and friends as the "pristine barefoot gardener". Ed was also a member of the Elks Club for over 60 years, Musicians Union Local 292, AFM and UFCW Union. At this time, the family would like to publicly thank Ed's caregiver, Bale Qarase, for whose gentle kindness and devoted diligence, we will forever be grateful. To the thoughtful, soul-giving support from the Sutter V.N.A., helping Ed on his way to eternal life, we are also deeply appreciative. A visitation will be held on January 5, 2011 from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the LAFFERTY & SMITH COLONIAL CHAPEL, 4321 Sonoma Hwy., Santa Rosa, Ca. (707) 539-2921. Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Ed's Life at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday January 8, 2011 at the Venturi family's home. Memorial contributions may be made to Sutter V.N.A. Hospice, 1110 Dutton Ave., Santa Rosa, 95401.