Vincent Joseph Venturo

Vincent Joseph Venturo, 88, an area resident since 2003, formerly of Thornwood, Yonkers, White Plains, and the Bronx, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, at Vassar Brothers Medical Center, surrounded by his devoted family.

Born on November 26, 1937, in the Bronx, Vinny was the son of the late Joseph Venturo and Rose (Yodice) Venturo. His mother, Rose, was his guiding light, and Vinny was a fiercely devoted son, always by her side with love and care.

A man of great character and courage, Vinny proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, a testament to his unshakable dedication. His strength and determination continued throughout his life, whether as a skilled carpenter, a firefighter with the White Plains Fire Department, or a loving family man. As a firefighter, Vinny received numerous citations for acts of heroism and life-saving bravery, building lifelong friendships with his brothers in the department - a bond that time could not erase. Even after retiring, he answered when duty called, working alongside his fellow retired firefighters in the solemn recovery efforts at Ground Zero following the 9/11 tragedy.

Vinny's sense of humor was bold and spirited, and he approached everything head-on - humor included. With a mischievous spark, he enjoyed keeping people on their toes, always ready to challenge and have fun. His playful nature never missed an opportunity to keep things lively. But beneath that wit was a fierce loyalty. If you were lucky enough to be called his friend, you knew he'd go to the ends of the earth for you. Vinny lived life unapologetically, with strength, courage, and a relentless will to embrace every moment. His humor and unyielding spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Vinny was also a man of passion and creativity. As an avid hunter, the hunt was not just a pastime but a tradition that brought him peace and joy from childhood well into his later years. Hunting season was his favorite time of year, and it brought out his love of nature and adventure. His true artistry, though, showed through in his woodworking. A master craftsman, Vinny's workshop was a place where magic happened. Sawdust in his hair and a smile on his face, he created stunning wooden bowls, plates, carvings, and even hand-crafted Easter eggs that will forever be treasured by his family. His creations were not just objects; they were pieces of his heart.

On September 3, 1960, Vinny married the love of his life, Dolores Lanni, at St. Barnabas Church in the Bronx. Together, they shared a remarkable life full of love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. Vinny is survived by Dolores, his beloved wife of 65 years, and their children: Joseph and Christine (Fitzgerald) Venturo, and Christina and Joseph Ausiello. He is also survived by his granddaughters, Danielle Brooks and her husband Bryce, and Catherine Ausiello; his great-grandson, Carson Brooks; his step-granddaughters, Kristin (Ausiello) May and her husband Christopher, and Amy (Ausiello) Feden and her husband Randy; as well as five step-great-grandchildren, and many nieces, and nephews who he held dear to his heart. Vinny was predeceased by his sister, Nancy Guiddy.

Vinny's passing has left a space in this world that cannot be filled. His memory will live on in the countless lives he touched, the jokes he shared, and the unbreakable bonds he forged. He will be missed more than words can express, but the love and laughter he brought into our lives will never be forgotten.

A celebration of Vinny's life will take place at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction, with calling hours on Monday, December 29th, from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday at 10 am at St. Columba Church, 835 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. He will be laid to rest at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Hawthorne on Wednesday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, an organization dear to Vinny's heart.