DR. RAYMOND JOSEPH VENTRE
November 26, 2014

"My wife and I are saddened to hear of Ray's death. Although it's been more than 30 years, his influence on my life looms large. Ray hired me to teach in the prison program, starting me on my career in higher education. My wife reminded me that his daughter was at my son's second birthday party. Even after all these years, I can picture his smile and hear his laugh. He left us too soon, but what a wonderful legacy!"

"My late husband, Tony, was a friend of Ray's from working at Marquette Branch Prison. I remember him calling your Dad "Ray Ventricle" which is ironic since they both had heart attacks! I am sure they are now in a better place sharing stories about the "Big House." Tony liked Ray, and from reading the other posts, it sounds like your Dad made life better for a lot of people. Danielle and Vanessa, I do remember your Dad lighting up when he talked about you. Your loss is Heaven's gain."

"Ray was a great friend during the eighteen years I taught in the NMU Department of English. My family and I will never forget his many kindnesses. I hope Ray is remembered for his support of his colleagues, his seemingly boundless energy, and often quirky sense of humor. We are sorry that we cannot be in Marquette today to celebrate his life with the many others who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. --Bill + Ginny Knox and Molly Doyle Dyer"

"His laughter. I will always remember Ray's laughter."

"In memory of Ray Ventre: You believed in me from the beginning and I will continue to miss you for everything that you were to everyone...at any given time until the good Lord called you home. Thank you for being one of the greatest men I\'ve ever had the privilege of knowing and thank you for just being you. With Love, Sueann"

"My first memory of Ray was in the choir loft of St Peter Cathedral. I was a teenager and way too cool to sing at church. I was only there because my Mother was in the choir and she made me go (insert eye roll). I was sitting with my arms crossed, sporting an attitude or quite possibly zoning out while the choir started to lead the congregation in a song. Ray walked up to me, handed me a song book opened to the correct page, kindly pointed to the music and walked away. Well, eventually, I grew up - My mother sang with Ray, I sang with Ray, even my daughter sang with Ray. When sharing the news of his passing with my daughter, I said Remember the funny guy in the choir loft, the one who had you play the pull my finger game? Yep, that was Ray. I will also remember laughing at funerals with Ray (okay, not actually laughing while the service went on but certainly afterwards in the basement). This is when he would share his infamous stories with the table. So, while I expect there will be tears shed on Saturday, I also expect to hear laughter and good music, because that was Ray."

"Ray was my first professor in the MFA program and the perfect person to welcome me into the fold. In my teaching, I consciously adopt two of his techniques: storytelling and complimenting students on a stimulating discussion. He was unfailingly kind to me and my son, who also earned his master's at Northern. I feel so lucky to have known him."

"Ray was a large part of my life at NMU. This image (if it attached correctly)I took while on one of three trips with Ray to the Sigma Tau Delta Conference. He appears to be telling one of his stories. We were in a jazz bar that Ray had chosen for us all to eat at. I think this was the Kansas City trip. I have many wonderful memories of Ray due to my involvement in Sigma Tau Delta. The things you could always count on when Ray was involved was honesty, enthusiasm, and laughter. This also is why I probably had better attendance for any class I was in that Ray taught than most others. While I haven't actually seen Ray in quite a while I still thought of him often. When my mother died last year, Ray was out-of-town, but still took time to send me a card with a memorial from Sacred Heart. I feel they are hanging out in heaven together as they did have a lot in common: English degrees, raising daughters, and the love of storytelling."

"Little did I know that hug at the airport Sunday morning would be our last. No more telling stories around the beach fire sipping single malt under those brilliant northern lights. So many memories; thank you for leaving that laugh. Miss you buddy."

"I rented a room from Ray for two years while I worked in a term position at NMU. We shared a lot of stories back and forth during that time. My wife and kids got to know him as well. The loss of Ray is a source of great grieving for me I shall miss him a lot."

"I was a student in a class of Ray's some 30-odd years ago. He was unfailingly enthusiastic and good humored about teaching and about English literature. He always remembered me and stopped to chat when we met on the streets of Marquette. What a purely good man. Intellectual without pretension, intelligent but firmly, happily down to earth. My deepest sympathies to his wife and daughters. Ray will be long remembered with affection and respect by all who had the pleasure of knowing him."

"While serving as a Trustee at N.M.U., I got to know Ray Ventre and we became friends. I admired him in all of his many roles: as an excellent union officer, later as a Department Head, and always as a highly talented and respected teacher; and, in some ways most important, as a caring, loving, humorous and kind person of integrity. We are all a little poorer for the loss of Ray from our midst. Personally, I will never forget his massive contributions to our beloved university, his students, and fellow faculty members. Ray's generosity can serve as a gold standard for all of us who are left behind. R.I.P., Ray Jon G. LaSalle Trustee Emeritus Northern Michigan University"

"I feel so sad for the hundreds of new NMU students that won't get to experience a class with Dr. Ventre. I had so many great teachers in my career as a student, but I can say that Dr. Ventre stood out among them as a cool guy and a good example for myself. I miss being in his class, and now will feel sad that more people won't get to share in my experience."

"To our friend Ray, you will be forever missed. I remember all those years ago when Ray sang in the Cathedral choir under my direction. His joy and laughter made some long evenings of rehearsal very enjoyable. He has forever touched so many lives with his laughter but he has for ever blessed my life with his presence and is voice. I am sure he is giving the director of heaven's choir a run for their money. Thanks for the laughs Ray, Thanks for the support you gave us in the good old days, and thanks for letting me be a part of your life. Enjoy your journey home, and tell God hello for me. You will be forever missed."

"This is not the first time I have come to this page to try and write something about Ray. Cate expressed it more eloquently than I ever could. So all I can add are a few stories. Ray liked stories. I remember riding in the car with Ray downstate to a Michigan AAUP meeting and us passing the billboard for Shunk's furniture. He snorted and said that when he first came to Marquette he thought the sign said Skunk's furniture and wondered what kind of place he came to. I remember him asking if he could put in a cassette to play and then us listening to his daughters, Vanessa and Danielle, sing. He was so very proud of the two of you. I also remember how I had to remind him that the yellow line down the middle of the road was not meant to show you where the middle of your car should be, the concept of lanes being somewhat loosely defined for Ray. Years later, I remember he was the first one I called when Jim, my husband, had a heart attack - to get advise, to get comfort, to be given hope. I remember times crying with him and laughing with him, his rants when he ran across injustice or "little shit" professors who cared more about their ego than their students, or the sparkle he would get in his eyes when we "tag teamed" the administration. I will miss his laugh in the dark of the Forest Roberts Theatre when he would get a joke before anyone else and then he would take the audience with him as he enjoyed the play and we enjoy the play with him. You always knew when Ray was in the house. I will miss Sunday afternoons at choir concerts sitting near the back of the Reynolds Recital Hall. A friend of mine who can see auras met Ray and as we walked away she smiled and said "He is a rare one." I agreed and asked why she thought so, she said "He has a white aura. Only people full of goodness and light have a white aura." So true."

"I took classes with Ray in the late 90's/early 00's and I never forgot him. I saw him on the day he passed. I just said hi as I held the door open for him. I wish I had said more. He was an excellent teacher, and he really cared for each and every one of his students. He is the teacher I have remembered through the years. I am sorry for your loss. May God be with you."

"I so enjoyed my interactions with Ray during my time in The President's Office. He always had a story to tell, and usually one of wit and humor. He was a true NMU Wildcat! He will certainly be missed, and we are all so blessed to have had him in our lives!"

"Ray was a member of my thesis committee, and the only member of that esteemed group who honored my invitation to drop by our house to celebrate afterwards. The group of friends all gathered along the garden wall in our backyard and began to share stories. As the Bud started taking common effect on the quality of the stories, Ray stood up and ran a twenty minute litany of some of his best material. Shaggy Dogs, knock-knocks, 3 priests walked into a bar... he had 'em all. As I now approach the age where such things happen, I will miss the chance to run things by Ray when I forget the punch line. One particular snorter I recall took place somewhere inappropriate, where we remembered Woody Allen's tale of the two widows who revisit an old favorite supper club: "I can't believe the food has gotten so bad here," said one. "And such small portions!" complained the other."

"I worked in the same building as Ray did a few years back as a building custodian. I remember a number of things about him such as his wonderful laugh that included his trademark snort. His dedication to the teaching profession. How unpretentious he was. The ductape parka, lol! His generous supply of soda pop that he freely gave to all and of which I took him up on many a time. But most of all the time he took to talk and joke with me even though he was so busy. I lost my father when he was 66 also. Just like my father who also taught here. Ventre family please accept my condolences. I'm so glad that I got to know him."

""Unique" isn't a word English department wonks use lightly, but it fits Ray. He was a tireless and principled advocate for all of us, from the lowliest teaching assistant to the most accomplished faculty member a servant-master, the rare kind of leader whose success was predicated on that of his charges. Down-to-earth and engaging, he made each of us feel welcome. Caring and committed, he lifted each of us up. Ray was also an exceptional friend: intelligent, generous, ebullient and always, always there. I met him 10 years ago, during my on-campus job interview. After giving his obligatory spiel as union grievance officer, he regaled me with the story of his first death, embellishing the best parts, as he was wont to do. It was the first of countless larger-than-life moments with Ray, who -- in the hearts of many -- will always be larger than death, too."

"Ray's heart was always in the right place. I have many memories of his dynamic personality. His death is a great loss to many."

"Ray was a great man, always willing to help others and never too busy ask you're doing. I appreciate everything he did for my wife and I when we were in Marquette. We'll miss him a lot."

"Ray Venture was a wonderful guy. He always gave his all for NMU. I will miss his humor and laugh."

"O Captain! O Captain! Our fearful trip is done, . . . the prize we sought is won. Thank you for teaching us to dwell in possibility dear boss, friend, mentor and protector of families. News of your latest journey came via Beijing. Your touch as always is world embracing! So much love and respect. Jo Wilder, U.S. Virgin Islands"

"Rip Dr. Ventre. "

"My thoughts and prayers are with all who loved and knew Dr. Ray Ventre, especially his family. I had the opportunity to work with Ray for many years at NMU, admiring his dedication and commitment to faculty and staff, to the AAUP and in particular his high regard for students and their learning. I will miss him and remember his contributions and his laugh. With sympathy to all those who morn his loss and celebrate his life."

"I loved Ray's endless willingness to help others.He was wonderful in the role of grievance officer on campus.He cared for others and always went the extra mile. His snorting laugh was one of a kind and his home-away-from-home office was always stocked with candy and beverages for visitors. His incredible generosity of spirit was a gift to NMU and all those he encountered."

"I will miss Ray's humor, most of all. He was so bright and so witty, but I know there's a special place for him in Heaven, as corny as that sounds (Ray could say it much better than I ever could). I'm so glad that we ran into him this summer, it was so great seeing him. Vanessa and Danielle, I know how hard this is, we just lost our mom (it feels like yesterday), so we're here for you. I wish I could physically be there, but I'm sending Trish, she's much better than I am. We love you and we will miss Ray. I know that he and my mom are up there causing a ruckus!"

"He was my advisor. I loved how he spoke nothing but the truth!!"

"Ray was my professor for several English classes in undergrad. I loved his passion for the language and literature, and he always sprinkled his lectures with hilarious family stories. He will truly, truly be missed."

"I first encountered Ray when I was a neophyte union guy attending my first Bargaining Council meetings back in the late '90s. Ray was the English Department's rep on the BC. I remember that he was loud, outspoken, and kept challenging Jim Greene (GO at the time), much to the latter's annoyance. As the years went by, I got to know him well through our work in the Union. We didn't always get along and once I hated his guts, but I always loved him (if that makes any sense). Ray sometimes made mistakes (like we all do), but he always lived up to them with humility and humor. Ray served the faculty and students at NMU very, very well. I last saw Ray a few weeks ago in the new JXJ. I tried to convince him to rejoin the Union leadership once his tenure as department head ended. He responded with his characteristically uproarious laugh and looked at me as if I were an idiot. I guess you won't wake-up miraculously this time, old man. I am going to miss you, Ray."

"I hear your laughter. I see you telling prison stories in my American Lit class. You helped me endless times. You are forever in my memories."

"I met Ray the day of my campus visit, and that meeting was the beginning of a rich friendship. He was my protector, my advocate, my adviser, my friend. I can just picture him snorting with laughter at all our comments, making self-deprecating side remarks to the angels around him. His legacy is enduring."

"I first met Ray during adoration, as we shared a Holy hour. We became friends and I feel blessed knowing such a kind hearted person! I will always remember Ray for his genuine goodness and concern for others! His warmth, goofiness, sense of humor, commitment to faith and duct tape shirt that made us all laugh, are just some of the memories I will hold close to my heart! Ray made St. Peter Cathedral a happier place with his smile and friendliness!! I will miss seeing him in " his " pew in the back right side of church! May we all learn from Ray not to take ourselves and life too seriously! Ray, may the choir of angels welcome you to Heaven!!! "

"I never had Ray as a teacher, but I was around the English department a lot as my fianc was in the program. The English department had a great sense of community, they were like family. I truly believe Ray was a big reason for that feeling of support, belonging, and trust. I saw it in the way I was always so welcome in the department by Ray, the faculty, and staff, despite not being in the program myself. I will miss hearing your laughs and listening to your stories! Rest in peace Ray!"

"Absolutely no doubt about it, my very favorite teacher at NMU. But Ray went beyond teaching, he truly cared about his students... From teacher to friend, our relationship continued throughout the years. His passing will leave a hole in so many hearts, as individuals such as Ray are the product of Our Lord's individual molds. A good man, who is now an angel. Bless your Family Ray and Rest in Peace Good Buddy..."

"I'll always remember Ray's passion, energy and enthusiasm for the teaching and learning at NMU. It was an honor to be one of the many who knew him as a friend."

"I will always remember Ray as a compassionate friend, mentor, scholar, and genuinely real human being. I will miss him."

"My friend, choir member, man who made me laugh, advisor for my Masters Degree, provider of extra newspaper articles about my family for years, giver of hugs, wearer of duct taped coat! I will miss you so very much. I have been blessed to know you. RIP, Ray. I imagine you'll be swaying with the angel choir just as you swayed at St. Peter Cathedral to every 3/4 song."

"Our sincere sympathy to Ray's family who meant the world to him. He was a good friend and his kindness and compassion will be greatly missed. Ray's legacy lives on in his daughters, friends, students and colleagues. We know he is in heaven with the Lord and this gives us comfort but his absence will leave a hole in our hearts."

"Ray was a great mentor and friend to me during my time at NMU and all during my teaching career. I will miss him very much. He was a marvelous teacher. I will remember his wit, his intellect and his great empathy for his students. And his laughhow can any of us ever forget that great laugh that took everyone along with it? It was very hard to be unhappy when Ray was in the room. You just can't replace that."

"Ray, you have left us way too early. I will miss your special sense of humor and way of pointing out the absurd, followed by your huge grin and unique laugh. I'm sure that heaven is now much more lively than it was before you arrived there, friend. Thanks for the countless things you did for those of us at NMU and the many ways in which you enriched our lives."

"Ray, how will we ever manage without you? I will never ask you to rest in peace. You are already, undoubtedly, rearranging management in the great beyond, all to the benefit of those who need it most. We miss you so much."

"I join the chorus of other former students at NMU: Ray was our advocate, purveyor of reason, and our go-to guy for anything. Sadly, sorely missed."

"Ray, full love laughs, commitment, and compassion for the work that you pursued. You will be missed. Bill Hill"

"Since 1979, Dr. Ventre has served, with distinction, at Northern Michigan University, as a highly respected teacher and colleague. Mrs.Jamrich and I extend our sincerest sympathies and prayers to the family. Dr. John X. Jamrich President Emeritus Northern Michigan University"