Leonard Manuel Ventura Jr.

Leonard Manuel Ventura, Jr., of Lake Charles was called Home on March 5, 2021. 

Leonard was born on November 20, 1949 to June and Leonard Ventura, Sr. in New Britain Connecticut.  

He attended E.C. Goodwin Technical School and shortly after graduation he enlisted into the United States Marines, serving in the Vietnam war. In 1969, after two years of service, he received an honorable discharge and returned home.  

Soon after returning home, he met Kathleen through a mutual friend, Debbie Boulanger (Bransford) and in 1971, he and Kathleen exchanged vows and together they welcomed two sons, Kevin and Michael.  He spent forty years in Colchester, CT working as a Diesel mechanic. Family was also important to him, he enjoyed spending time with his wife and children. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and also enjoyed scuba diving.  

As a disabled veteran himself, he proudly worked along other veterans in various programs and organizations. He served on the Honor Guard with the Antique Veterans Association, Vietnam Veterans Association, American Legion, Disabled Veterans Affairs, and the VFW.  

Upon retirement, he moved to Louisiana, for the improved weather.  Often you would find him enjoying the sportsman’s paradise, fishing the banks of Rutherford Beach with his best friend Kevin, and later would share their stories with Kellie. He also enjoyed social activities with his “Southern Family” friends Jay and Lize Brown.  Leonard lived through several hardships, yet he could always smile and lived by "...Whatever makes you happy".

He was welcomed into Heaven by his mother and a brother, Lawrence Ventura.  

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of forty-nine years, Kathleen; two sons, Kevin (Crystal) Ventura and Michael Ventura; grandchildren, Raven Ventura, Ariella Ventura, and Mariah (Zachary) Tanner; father, Leonard Ventura Sr.; and siblings Lynn Dziurgot and Lane Ventura. 

Cremation has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home, with family to host a private service at a later date.  

We invite you to sign her digital register book, leave a fond memory or sentiment of condolences on our website www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.