James L. Venchuk
James L. Venchuk, age 70, US Airforce Veteran, of Western Springs, formerly of Chicago passed away on March 28, 2021. Beloved husband of Alison M. Redding Venchuk for a wonderful 26 years. Loving father of Alex Venchuk. Devoted son of Lorraine and the late James J. Venchuk. Cherished son-in-law of Corinne and the late William F. Redding. Dear brother-in-law of Christopher Redding. Fond cousin and friend of many.
James was an advocate for veterans and was able to practice that through his career as a counseling psychologist. He set in motion careers and education for countless veterans. His dedication and commitment to veterans was a continued force in his life. James also was a longtime supervisor for the Department of Labor. As a young man, he helped his mother run her Southside corner bar. Through this, he developed a compassion and caring for others that continued throughout his life. Jim was a dedicated father and husband who appreciated his family. He always put their needs before himself. Jim also had an extreme love for dogs and could tear up at the mention of any passed pet. He enjoyed travel and was able to travel the world extensively. His favorite place to make a pilgrimage was where he was stationed during the Vietnam War in Finland, MN. Jim was a big fan of the Chicago Sox, Bears, the Blues, and all things Southside. He will sure miss his Johnny’s Beef and sausage pizza. Most of all, he will miss nights out by the fire in his backyard feeling the contentment and happiness that was his life.
A Memorial Visitation will be held from 2:00pm until time of Service 7:00pm Saturday, April 3rd at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. A group limit of 50 guests are permitted in the chapel at a time. Masks and social distancing required. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Disabled American Veterans at dav.org; the Wellness House, Hinsdale at wellnesshouse.org; or Animal Welfare League, Chicago Ridge at animalwelfareleague.com.
For further service information, contact the Funeral Home at 708-352-6500.
Jim was a good, kind, and funny friend for many years. We both worked for the VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation program, he in Chicago and I in Milwaukee. We talked about the job we both loved, well, that focused on helping vets become educated and employed, as well as our families and our travels. Jim was exceedingly smart and always looked at situations from two sides. He was also an optimist with a permanently cheery disposition who made time for his friends. RIP Jim.
I am very sorry to learn of Jim’s death. He was the young colleague of my husband, Carl, at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. I came to know him as a smart and engaging counselor who worked hard to help his veterans with educational and vocational goals. Jim and the other counselors were a fun group that Carl and I enjoyed socially. My deepest sympathies to Allison at this sad time. I am sorry that I cannot attend the visitation.
Jim and I were good friends years back. We enjoyed taking a trip around Lake Michigan and stopped for a boat ride to Mackinac Island so his dog “FLASH” could use the Facilities. Somehow got off the path along Lake Michigan and ended up in Bay City, not much to see there and headed back to Kalamazoo where Jim got his masters degree and attended Western Michigan University. We had friends there and felt at home with them. I had to work Monday so we hit the road again and half way Jim’s car dies so we slept on the side of the road in the chevette with “FLASH”. In the morning we figured to call for a tow but to our amazement the car started. I made it to work an hour late but it was worth the memory. THANKS JIM VENCH!!!
Happy Father’s Day, Jimmy. Miss you like crazy. We will never be the same without you.
Carry on my wayward son. They’ll be peace when you are done. Lay your weary head to rest. Don’t you cry no more