Andrew Venanzi

Andy was born in Swoyerville, PA. Moved to Frontenac, Kansas when five. He became a talented accordion player. Played football in school.

After graduating, worked in Wayne, MI. Enlisted in Navy March 1943. Later attended USC on GI bill. He played French horn in marching band. Graduated as a music major.

He met Mary on a blind date. They were married in August 1952 and started a family. They moved to Long Beach in 1954, he became a sixth grade teacher until completing his masters and counseling certificate at Chapman University in 1959. Catalina was his first counseling job.

Returning to Long Beach he worked in various schools, retiring from Hudson Elementary in 1986. Work and helping raise 6 children had kept him busy! He enjoyed working with Boy Scouts, singing at St. Cornelius and Long Beach Barbershop Chorus. Continued to work three days a week for early childhood development until 1996. An avid gardener, he was known for his flower bouquets to teachers. Retirement provided many trips in USA, Italy, Europe and Jerusalem. When Mary retired they moved to Laguna Woods. He became active in American Italian Club, playing bridge, hand and foot, American Legion, and sang in choir at St. Nicholas.

Andy was a devoted family man and husband. Always had a joke to tell. He loved God, his large family, good food, music and people. We cherish the many memories he made and will miss him dearly.

He leaves behind his wife Mary; his children Michelle Harding, Steve (Lois), Russ (Ginger), Mark (Becky), Dean (Aurora), and Jeff (Claudia); 21 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.