Vincent A. Puma

Vincent Anthony Puma, age 83, of Romeoville, Illinois, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, storyteller, and all-around legend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 11, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on July 2, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, Vincent was the beloved son of James Puma, Anna (née Losurdo) Colella and step-father, Frank Colella. He served his county in the United States Army.
He was married 59 years to his sweetheart Janet, who somehow managed to keep up with his antics and pasta cravings for nearly six decades. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Terri and Tony, who inherited his love of laughter, loyalty, and maybe just a little bit of his stubborn streak.
Vincent was the proud grandfather of Christopher, Ryan, and Cameron-three boys who knew that "Grandpa Vinnie" could turn even the most mundane drive into a cross-country epic. He is also survived by his sister Annette, and a lively crew of nieces and nephews. -each of whom has at least one unforgettable Uncle Vince story (and probably more.)
He shared countless laughs and good-natured banter with his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Judy, Bobby, Nicky and Elany-always ready with a quick comeback, a playful jab, or a story that would leave everyone with a smile.
A lithographer by trade and a Cubs fan by heart, Vincent found joy in the details-whether it was the perfect color for the job or the thrill of a Super Bowl pool. He had a soft spot for casinos, a deep love for pasta, and a passion for politics that could turn any dinner into a spirited debate (with extra sauce on the side).
But Vincent's true calling was storytelling. His tales of working in the City of Chicago were legendary: from picking up a naked stranger (don't ask), to teaching the boss's son a lesson (definitely don't ask), to watching his buddy Garret circle the block endlessly in search of cheap parking (you can ask, but it's a long story). He drove with purpose, talked with passion, and lived with heart.
Vincent was the kind of man who lit up a room just by walking in-and then promptly took over the conversation. He adored his friends and family, and he counted down the days to every gathering, reunion, and celebration. He was the humble patriarch of a loud, loving, and slightly chaotic clan, and he wouldn't have had it any other way.
Though he's no longer behind the wheel, Vincent's stories will keep driving forward in the hearts of those who loved him. His laughter, his wisdom, and his uncanny ability to turn a simple moment into a cherished memory will be missed more than words can say.
Rest easy, Vincent. We'll save you a seat at the next family party-and maybe even let you win the next Super Bowl pool.
Vincent is survived by his devoted wife, Janet (née Mancini) Puma; his daughter, Terri (Mark) Puma-Ralph; his son, Tony (Kristy) Puma; and his cherished grandchildren, Christopher (Eliana) Ralph, Ryan Ralph and Cameron Puma. He is also survived by his sister, Annette Duffy; his sister-in-law, Judy Lippeth; brothers-in-law, Nick (Elany) Mancini, and Robert Mancini; nieces and nephews, Karyn, Corinne, Norman, David, Vince, Vicki and Nicky; and many dear friends.
Vincent was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Paula Leff, nephew Phil, and brothers-in-law, Steve Lippeth and Michael Mancini.
A Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service 3:00 p.m. at Beidelman-Kunsch Funeral Homes & Crematory. Interment with Military Honors will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025, 10:30 a.m. at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, Illinois. Please arrive by 10:15 a.m. if you plan on attending.
Memorials in Vincent's name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Wounded Warrior Project.