Venita was born Feb. 17, 1936 in Seattle to James and Madeline Kelley. She attended school in Seattle and Nehalem; graduating from Holy Angles in Ballard. She met her husband, Wilfred Bud in 1955 and they were marred on Sept. 29, 1956 and had 62 happy years of life together. They had five children: William Bill, John (Kaye Bronzina), Theresa (Jim Lynn), Michelle, and Christopher (Angela); as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Venita worked for the Service Division for over 20 years helping Veterans and became the National Chapeau (President 2003-2004) of 8 40 and Department President of the American Legion in Washington 2006-2007. She retired in 1995. Venita was Irish as can be. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Legion, Child Welfare Foundation.