Raymond E. Venema Jr.

Ray Venema is President of the Pennsylvania Builders Association. /(Ed. Note: mc-LAB-residential-sprinklers-point-counterpoint)

Raymond E. Venema Jr., 67, of Montoursville, passed away Saturday, March 3, 2018, at UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center. He was born Oct. 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 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 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. Fourth 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 County SPCA, 2805 Reach Road, Williamsport, PA 17701.

Arrangements are by Spitler Funeral Home, Montoursville.