Raymond E. Venema, Jr., 67 of Montoursville, passed away Saturday, March 3, 2018 at UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center. He was born October 14, 1950 in Williamsport a son of Raymond E. Sr. and the late Marian A. Raker Venema.
He was a 1968 graduate of Montoursville Area High School and then attended St. Mary’s University in Nova Scotia, graduating in 1972. He was the owner of Susquehanna Builders of Lycoming County, Inc. whose work included home building and land development. He was a very active proponent for making housing affordable. He was a life director and past president of the West Branch Builder’s Association; past president of the Pennsylvania Builder’s Association, was the PA State Representative to the National Association of Home Builders, and was awarded both local and state builder of the year awards.
Ray was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Williamsport, and especially treasured time with family particularly loving his granddaughter. He was a seasoned traveler, enjoyed going hiking with his dogs, scuba diving, wine tastings, attending concerts, and dancing.
He is survived by his father of Montoursville; his first wife, the former Sharon Berger of Danville; his wife, the former Lori A. Harding; Son, Eric Venema of Hughesville; daughter, Janel (Brett) Gordner of Danville; brothers, Patrick (Rebecca) Venema, and Norman Venema, both of Montoursville; sisters, Marianne (Jimmie) Lundy of Warrensville, Suzanne (Lon) Edmonds of Bloomsburg, and granddaughter, Aliyah Gordner.
A memorial service will be held 4:00 p.m. Saturday, March 10, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church, 2 Ross St. Williamsport, with Pastor D.G. Giordano officiating. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 3 – 4:00 p.m. prior to the service at the church. Following the service a Celebration of Life will be held at 5:30 p.m. at the Historic Gennetti Hotel Ballroom, 200 W. 4th St., Williamsport.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to either the West Branch Builder’s Association, noted as “ In memory of Ray Venema” towards a scholarship program, or to the Lycoming Co. SPCA, 2805 Reach Rd., Williamsport, PA 17701. Arrangements are by Spitler Funeral Home, Montoursville.
