Vito A Ventura

Vito A Ventura, 90, a longtime resident of Millbury passed away peacefully Monday, December 5, 2022, joining in heaven his wife, Lois who passed in 1988 and son Stephen who passed in 2014.

Vito was born in Worcester, the only son of seven children of Italian immigrants Mauro and Laura (Ferrante) Ventura. Raised in Worcester, Vito graduated from Commerce High School,  joined the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, serving his country proudly.   Upon discharge and return to Worcester, Vito married the “Love of his life” Lois A Grieves.  They then began to raise their family, moving to Millbury in 1960.  Vito and Lois lived a life of love, family and working together in their business until Lois left his side in 1988.   Vito continued to live in the family home until recently.  He owned and operated with Lois,  Mr. Vito’s  Hair salon in Millbury and Worcester before retiring several months ago after 70 years of dedication to his friends and customers. 

Vito is survived by his daughter, Deborah A Shiraka of East Falmouth; granddaughters, Lauren Shiraka of Hingham and Cara Shiraka of Portland, Ore;  two sisters, Laura Zukowski of Worcester and Margie Melinicki of East Douglas; Many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dedicated customers who loved him.   In addition to his wife, son, and parents, five sisters, Rose Pucci, Anna Todisco, Clara Ventura, Grace DeMaria and Mary DeToma predeceased him. 

In Vito’s life, nothing was more important than family.  He cherished the times he could be home with and around his loved ones.  He loved the outdoors and being outside, hunting, fishing, enjoying the peace and quiet of nature, and skiing.  Vito also enjoyed traveling with Lois, as a member of the U.S. Navy, visiting many ports of call and taking the opportunity to again visit with Lois.   Vito along with his wife were members of the Worcester, National and Massachusetts Cosmetology Associations.

In keeping with the families wishes, no services are planned.  Vito was entombed alongside his wife and son in St John’s Mausoleum.  Memorial remembrances in Vito’s name can be made to his favorite charity, St Jude Children’s research Hospital, 501 St Jude Way, Memphis, Tenn.   The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family once more with arrangements.