MICHAEL VENNETT

1915 - 2014

VENNETT, MICHAEL “MIKE” (1915-2014) Michael “Mike” Vennett, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, passed away on September 25, 2014. He was born on October 19, 1915 in New Haven, CT, to Katherine and John Veneczuk (Vennett). Mike married Ann Solecki in Hartford, CT, on May 3, 1941. They were married for 52 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Ann, his sister Helen Vaughan, and his brothers Steven and Peter. He is survived by his sister Anne Welsh, his sons Richard (Mary Ann) and Bruce (Patricia), grandchildren Marie (Deane) White, Michael (Danielle) Vennett, Peter (Jennifer) Vennett and David Vennett, and 6 great grandchildren. He graduated from Hillhouse High School in 1934 and attended New Haven College. As a young man, Mike’s athletic abilities were displayed as a basketball player in New Haven’s industrial leagues and in the three mile cross harbor swim where he came in second one year. Mike worked for the American Steel & Wire division of US Steel for 43 years in New Haven. He got the job because he was a good basketball player, but rose through the ranks because of his ability to solve problems and get the job done. A number of his wire rope production ideas were patented. While working for US Steel, he owned a laundromat and then a bowling alley in Branford. Mike was an active member of St. Michael’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in New Haven, CT, where he served as parish council president. After retirement, he and his wife Ann moved to Wellington, FL. Mike was a person you wanted on your side in any struggle you had because of his strength and tenacity. He was known as “GG” (great grandfather) by his loving family. He will be missed by his family and friends. A graveside service was held on October 13, 2014 at St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery in Glastonbury, CT.