Eugene Raymond Venuto
Feb. 2, 2020, Cherry Hill, NJ, formerly of Yeadon and Broomall, PA. Beloved husband of Mildred (nee Deodato); father of Deborah (Michael) Apalucci, Cynthia Phillips and Eugene (Diana). Grandfather to Tara Liberatore, Michael Apalucci, Heather and Stephen Phillips, Nikolas and Dante Venuto and great grandfather to Bella, Nico, Tristan, Zach, Derek and Ace.
Gene was born and raised in south Philadelphia and at the age of 18 he enlisted in the US Navy. He was a communication specialist during WWII who helped convoys avoid enemy detection as they brought desperately needed supplies to the European theater. After the war, Gene met the love of his life while serving as an usher at a local skating rink, and the two were married for 70 years. During that time Gene joined his brother and business partner and together they grew their company into the nation’s largest supplier of drafting and engineering supplies. His smile, laugh and an intense concern for his colleagues and customers were part of his “secret sauce”. Gene’s was energized by being with his family, there was no smile larger than his when he was holding and rocking a baby or watching his children or grandchild perform or compete. His fighting spirit was an inspiration to everyone who helped care for him and his refrain of “We’re going to beat this!” became the family mantra.
Friends and relatives are invited to a visitation on Friday, February 7, from 9:30 am to 11:45 am at St. Pius X Church, 220 Lawrence Road, Broomall, PA. A funeral mass will be held at noon. In lieu of flowers, contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital are appreciated. You can donate online at www.giftfunds.stjude.org/pop . If you phone or mail your donations, please use Memorial ID #11 92 38 33.