Robert Rhody Venckunas

Robert Rhody Venckunas, 92, of Hazelhurst and Wisconsin Rapids, passed away November 20, 2023.

Rhody was born November 22, 1930 to Joseph and Veronica (Szymkowiak) Venckunas. He married Joyce Joosten on August 25, 1952 at St. Philip Catholic Church in Rudolph. They were blessed with 71 years of marriage and two daughters, Paula and Donna. Rhody and Joyce farmed in Rudolph and he also worked for Dairy State Cheese Company. On December 8, 1952 he was called to serve in the Korean War for the United Sates Army. He trained at Fort Eustis, Va. and served with the Transportation Corps. in Thuley Greenland. Joyce resided in Williamsburg Va. during that time. After his honorable discharge in 1954, Rhody and Joyce continued farming in Rudolph until they moved to Woodstock, Ill. where he first drove for KAT Trucking and later Cassens Transport out of Belvidere, Ill. delivering motor vehicles to dealership. He was a member of the Teamsters Local 325 Rockford, Ill. Following his retirement, they moved to their other home in Hazelhurst, and set up a winter retreat in Yuma, Ariz.

Rhody enjoyed taking his family on fishing trips in Canada and camping trips visiting national parks attending the worlds fairs, and drove to Alaska a couple of times; the first with his family in 1974. He also enjoyed snowmobiling in the Northwoods with his family and neighbors, and taking his wife for ATV rides down the road. He was a life member of Moose International dropping in on lodges where ever they traveled.

Rhody is survived by his wife, Joyce; daughters Paula Vermett of Woodstock, Ill., and Donna Sorensen of Loretta; grandchildren Jon Camarena of Woodstock, Ill. and Jeremia (Elle) Sorensen of Bolivia, N.C.; great-grandchildren Hannah, Nolan, Avianna, and Oliver; a great–great-granddaughter River; stepsister Betty (Steve) Rhodock of Pickford, Mich., and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, and sister Rhita Olson.

A celebration of life will be held May 25, from noon to 5 p.m. at Saint Phillips Grotto Welcome Center in Rudolph. Blessing at 1 p.m.