Wilfredo V. “Fred” Venal, 77, of Warren, PA., died Tuesday morning, July 23, 2019 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born June 22, 1942 to Crispin and Corona Villafuerte Venal, Sr. in Manila, Philippines. Fred has resided in Warren, PA. for the past 20 years and was formerly of Pampa, TX., Kokomo, Indiana and Chicago, IL. Fred earned his Bachelor’s Degree in engineering from University of the Philippines in Manila, his Master’s Degree from Aachen University in Aachen, Germany and his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois, Circle Campus, Chicago, IL.
He was employed with the former National Forge Company and Ellwood National Steel Company as a metallurgist for 20 years and was currently still working. Fred was an active member with Holy Redeemer R.C. Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and volunteer with the Saturday morning cleaning committee. He served as a board member with BEI Enterprises and was a member of AFM International, for metallurgists.
He enjoyed running since college and ran numerous marathons.
He was an avid traveler and a volunteer coach for the Warren County Special Olympics.
Fred is survived by his wife of 45 years, Gloria Vicky Castro Venal, getting married on his birthday, June 22, 1974 in Chicago, IL., 2 Children – Heidi Venal of Warren, PA., Bobby Venal and wife, Shanna of Lincoln, CA., his siblings – Wilhemina Valenzuela and husband, Patrick, Crispin Venal, Jr. and wife, Laurinda, Irma Escalante and husband, Lorentz all of Sydney, Australia, Rolando Venal and wife, Remy of Granger, IN., Guillermo Venal and wife, Espie of Sydney, Australia, 2 Grandsons – Ethan and Elliott Venal, several nieces and nephews also survive.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Virgilio Venal.
Friends may call at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA. on Friday, July 26, 2019 from 5 to 8 P.M. and on Saturday, July 27, 2019 at Holy Redeemer R.C. Church,
11 Russell Street, Warren, PA one hour prior to a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M.. with Fr. James Gutting, Pastor, officiating. Interment will be in St. Joseph R.C Cemetery. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Holy Redeemer Church Building Center Fund or Hospice of Warren County, 1 Main Avenue, Warren, PA. 16365.
E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com.
Fred was one of the nicest persons I ever had the privilege of knowing and working with. I was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. My deepest condolences to his family.
Our sincerest and heartfelt condolences to the Venal Family. Eternal Rest Grant Unto Kuya Sonny Venal and May Perpetual Light Shine Upon him. Profoundly sorry that we’ll be unable to attend the bereavement events. We will get in touch. Much love from us.
Hugs and prayers.
I was so sad to read of Fred’s passing. I remember all the fun the 3 of us at swimming at the Y on Saturday mornings! My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
I served on the Board of BEI with Fred. What a kind hearted man he was and his commitment to others was evident in his participation and advocacy on the Board. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Fred was a hard working, well respected man who contributed a lot to the success of Ellwood Group.
He will be missed by all of us.
My swim coach consistently gave more than he received. I will always remember him as one that pushed us all to be better, and he set an example of how to do so. The very best humans are those that fly far below acclaim’s radar. Such was Fred in my memory.
John and I are sorry we were unable to be with you to express our sympathy personally.
Fred’s positive, thoughtful and kind approach to life benefited all of us who knew him, especially on the Board at BEi and through Special Olympics. He will be missed.
Sandy and John Pearson
I worked with Fred in Pampa he was a fine friend and we have missed him since the move. We are sorry for your loss and will keep you in our prayers.
just learned of Fred’s passing. what a great guy he was! an outstanding metallurgist. Very sorry to I have not been able to see him for many years. May his soul rest in peace.