Lillian Venezia, (1958 - 2014) - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

There is nobody else who will offer Your heart to the world and experience its sacred qualities but You. You can make a difference in this world, so long as You have confidence in Your innate ability to love. - Lodro Rinzler

55 years old
Born on March 13, 1958 in Brooklyn, New York, United States
Passed away on February 4, 2014

This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Lillian Venezia, 55, born on March 13, 1958 and passed away on February 4, 2014. Lillian touched so many people during her life and this website is an opportunity for all her friends and family to share how Lillian impacted their lives. Lillian was a couragous and passionate individual who will continue to influence our lives for many years to come.

Service was held on Saturday, February 15th, from 3-9pm
at The Green Building, 452 Union Street, Brooklyn NY 11215,
Ph 718-522-3363.
www.thegreenbuildingnyc.com

Valet service was provided.

Flowers filled the building and were a beautiful tribute to Lillian's life and love for plants and flowers (you know Lillian loved her flowers!).

Donations can be made to the Cancer support organization "Fighting Pretty" via their website www.fightingpretty.org. If you want to indicate that the gift is to made in Lillian's memory, include her name in the name field. For example, write "Lillian Venezia". Checks can be sent to PO Box 951, NY NY 10150.

This organization sends supportive care packages to women who are fighting cancer and Lillian was moved by the package that I had arranged to be sent to her, which included a pair of mini pink boxing gloves.

Lillian’s final resting place: Greenwood Cemetery Brooklyn NY, 5th Avenue and 25th St,: Section 45618, Lot 31, Plan 109. provide this information to the office staff and they can direct you to the site

Tributes

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February 4, 2015

We'll always remember Lillian as a very talented, strong, loving, lovely woman who cared so much about her family, her patients and her friends. Kevin, we think you were very lucky to have found her and we're so glad you have your three terrific daughters to help you remember all the special times you had together.

February 4, 2015

Dear Cousin, One year, where has it gone. I hope you and my sister are reminiscing and enjoying each others company.

November 12, 2014

to lillians family i am so sorry for your loss
she was a special wise lady caring sweet honest i will miss her dearly
i feel so selfish for help to have helped me with my problems i had no idea she was a special lady now an angel above .....

September 4, 2014

My dear sweet Lillian. Today marks 7 months since you started the long journey home. I feel your presence in your garden today. I'm watering the flowers with your butterfly sprinkler, and as the bugs and bees and flies start buzzing frantically. I think they appreciate the water but are annoyed at the added difficulty getting at the nectar.
Life is full, but would be fuller if you were here. The girls are moving forward as best they can, but they would be leaping if you were here. The dogs are happy, but they miss having you around to adore. And me, I just plug along, missing you terribly, feeling misty when certain songs play, when the girls reach a milestone, when I need someone to talk to and need some guidance, when I want to share something wonderful that has happened, I wish I wish I wish you were here to share it with. You, of all the people in the world, deserve more time on earth among the people who loved you. You appreciated the simple things, which are Life's most important things; family, friends, nature, delicate hand made treasures, well made food made with care.
Today, we go to the Botanical Gardens to experience one of your favorite places, and be close to you.
We love you, and as always, keep you close in our hearts.

May 5, 2014

Its May 4th, my love, 3 months since you began your next journey. I spent the day at the Botanical Gardens. Today the Japanese Cherry blossoms were finally in full bloom. I remembered how you loved them, and we visited once when Ilana was young and took some beautiful pictures. This year I joined the BBG in your name, as a memorial. Ilana and I have visited once earlier in April to see the Magnolias and the daffodils. They were beautiful too.

Today I sat under the pink canopy, leaned up against one of the trees, listened to Edith Piaf, and I felt you close. It was difficult to see the many families, young and old, small and large, extended and new, enjoying the day...but they are welcome to, for this is life, to share in this natural beauty.

It seems unfair that you could not be here in person to witness the beauty of the spring day, but I felt you here in spirit.

I missed you terribly today. I love you and all that you gave of yourself for and to us. You will always be close to my heart

April 1, 2014

Dear Kevin & family:

I was so saddened to learn of Lillian's death. All words are inadequate. My heart goes out to you all.

Donna Faith

March 14, 2014

Dear Kevin and girls,
I have never met you or even been to the USA but received an e mail this morning from your dear mother or grandmother Marion telling us about your great loss. How my heart bleeds for you all and how touched I have been as I have read stories and tributes to Lillian who was no doubt an amazing and lovely lady.
I have never met your mother either but your 2 uncles have visited us in U.K. and I have heard so much about your grandparents who spent many years in China. They were like parents to my own parents who lived in the same province in China. Your grandfather Ray brought my parents first two children into the world and were there when their first child tragically lost her life to dysentery when she was just 15 months old, your grandparents were a great comfort to them and now you must all be reeling with that same pain which must be hard to bear. Andy and I will pray for strength for you all, it is good to know that your dear parents are there for you 3 beautiful girls.

March 14, 2014

A bunch of Malia's friends, a few neighbors, and a colleague of mine dropped in for some cake, wine, and my home brew. We set off white and lavender balloons with prayers to Lillian at dusk. One of the dozen balloons got stuck in a tree, which made me think aloud, "Lillian never wanted to leave Brooklyn!" Seems she sent her own message to us! Missing and loving you more this morning, Lillian.

March 13, 2014

Not a day goes by without you near.

Happy Birthday mama.

March 13, 2014

Missing you big time today my love. I aim to be present and mindful of this special day, the day that brought you into this world, that allowed your spirit to engage with the rest of us, that embued the world with your generosity, fierceness, compassion, and joy for helping others. I miss you I miss you I miss you my love. Watch over me and your girls today and every day. I love you. I always will. Happy birthday!

March 13, 2014

Happy Birthday, Lillian. I know you are watching over your family- we remember you on this special day and always. Your legacy lives on!

March 13, 2014

Happy Birthday Lillian, we honor you in our thoughts today. Your special day. You are missed.

March 13, 2014

I'll always remember we shared initials, and often were seated near each other in Holy Family when teachers sat us alphabetically. Later our paths crossed again while attending LIU. It was a blast. An upbeat, fun person with a great laugh and smile. God bless...

March 13, 2014

It's the day of your birth, Lillian. How fortunate for the lives of your family, your patients, your friends, that you came into the world, and made their world better. It's sad that we don't give these tributes when you were with us; God bless those who did. Thank you for the joy and meaning you gave to our son, Kevin, and for our three granddaughters.

Love, Marian

February 27, 2014

Lillian was my therapist.I had the honor of knowing her and sharing with her through my own battle with breast cancer is 2012. I can not tell you what an impression she has made on my life. We shared so many stories, she helped me cope with cancer, and come out on the other side. She also shared stories about her family with me. Im glad I was able to "beautify" with L'Oreal products. I am so devastated to know that we will not be able to share in therapy and in life.

February 24, 2014

Aloha Kevin,
I only knew you as a little boy in Kailua when you babysat my daughter, Monika. I am so sad to hear from your mom that you wife Lillian, lost her battle with that awful disease.
My thoughts go out to you and your three daughters. Maybe all these many tributes by your friends and family will help you a little to get through this hard time.

February 23, 2014

Sending you a big hug and loving care to get you and your girls through this time of loss.

February 17, 2014

A note to Lillian:
I never really thought of an afterlife for myself, but it is easy for me to think of one for you. Why? Because your spirit is not going to be stopped by a failure of the body. I can feel the presence of that spirit as I stroll down our block now. It buoys your family, I think.
That same intensity of spirit kind of stopped me from knowing you better. My loss. Whenever I would see you, you were always doing something, and doing it with such an intensity that I didn't want to distract you from it, even if that something was turning the loam in a pot in your front yard. But just seeing you taught me something about intensity, every time.
However, when I had a question, usually about where to find a health resource for a family member, you were generous with your time and analytic in your response. Many thanks.
You are missed, even if your spirit is felt. I would tell you about your memorial, but, of course, you were there with the flowers and prosecco.

February 17, 2014

Kevin, I am so sorry for your loss. Keeping you and your beautiful family in my prayers...

February 15, 2014

Kevin,

I'm so sorry for your loss. I remember your wedding, beautiful day, beautiful bride. Let's catch up when the time is right.

Andrew
512-965-5429

February 14, 2014

We share your sorrow, Kevin, Ilana, Malia, and Imani, and members of the Venezia family. We only wish that we could have known Lillian much better, and visited with your family more than the one time at the Idaho farm in summer, 2005. We remember Lillian as being so much fun, and so loving and caring. She will always be with you in your great memories.

February 14, 2014

I am Margarita, Cuco’s wife. I met Lillian when she came to Spain in 1987. I remember her as a joyful woman, music lover and an always smiling person. I am very sorry for your loss. I believe that when we love someone and lives in our memories, this person never disappears. All my love and support for you, Heidel family

February 14, 2014

Lillian and I became friends when I moved to Park Slope in 1979. I was new to the city then and she showed me the ropes. Over the next seven years, as we built our careers and searched for that special someone, we shared the ups and downs of living the single life in New York City. What a gift her friendship was for me during those challenging times! After I moved to Germany, distance, time and the demands of motherhood and career led to only sporadic contact with each other. But in the summer of 2012, I had the pleasure of seeing her again with two of her beautiful girls. A few hours of sharing our stories and the years of separation melted away. Much had changed, but Lillian's joie de vivre, the sparkle in her eye, the warmth of her smile and her generous heart remained constant. She was such a force for good in the world and I will treasure her memory always.

February 14, 2014

Lillian's friendliness and concern for others was remarkable. Neither I nor my daughter will ever forget her care for my husband,Joe, when he was sick and dying. That image of her coming through the door to check on us will stay with me forever. She was a profound strength for us. We pray for her family and friends who will miss her so much.

February 12, 2014

Their are no words that we can offer, too young to not be here any longer, our prayers and thoughts to Lillian's family. With Love, The Marinacci family.

February 12, 2014

Lillian was a childhood friend from Holy Family School in Canarsie. Though we parted after graduating 8th grade, I will always remember her animated life-force. She really was a personality to be reckoned with! A beautiful girl, then a beautiful woman... now an angel. Wishing peace and love to the family during this very difficult time. Kevin, it was wonderful of you to share all of those photos!

February 12, 2014

Lillian was a source of comfort and support to me as I journeyed through my own battle with cancer. She was always positive and strong, helping me to take charge of my own care and treatment. She helped me in other ways as well in dealing with some sensitive issues with members of our family. Lillian added a spark to our family that will continue because we will never forget her passion for life.

February 12, 2014

Kevin,
your family photos over the years, and here on this site, are filled with such warmth, love and FUN :) I am so grateful to have been able to share in seeing some of your life, with Lillian. I hope that your wonderful memories help get you through this difficult, emotional time. All of my love and hugs to you.....and your ohana. Aloha, Kim

February 12, 2014

Lillian was a good friend through our early school years. There are so many fine memories from the holy family school days. Im so happy we had the opportunity to share all those memories at our last reunion. My sincere condolences ..I will remember lillian and her family in my prayers.

February 11, 2014

Kevin, my heart aches for for you and your family. I send prayers and love and light to you as you go down this path, never alone. Lillian surely was a special woman, with whom you shared an amazing life and beautiful children. In Hawaiian there is no word for goodbye, simply a hui hou, until we meet again. And so, to Lillian ... a hui hou. Ke skua pu.

February 11, 2014

Kevin,
I am saddened by your loss. May you and your family be sustained by all that she meant to you.

February 11, 2014

Rest in peace sweet Lillian. You were an inspiration to your patients and always so loving and caring to your coworkers. May God grant your family the strength to carry on.

With Love. Eunice (PATH CENTER)

February 11, 2014

Dear Kevin and family. I'm so sorry for your loss. I did not now Lillian well, but was always touched by your home life stories, as it is very apparent how much your family means to you. The time I met Lillian I remember admiring her Brooklyn edge, I though it a nice yin to your aloha yang. I wish you strength through the love of family and friends during this difficult time. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you need anything.

February 11, 2014

My daghter Jada and Malia met in middle school in 2006 so thats how a got to meet Lillian. The girls have been dancing together ever since and are currently at the same high school. Lillian and i meet at the their dance performances quite often and we get excited and proud watching our girls on stage. I will forever remember the time we spent at the country house together because i know thats a special space she shares. I will miss her wonderful cooking,her energy and generousity. lillian was not afraid to trust....i wll miss you my "dance mom".

February 11, 2014

I'm saddened by your loss Kevin, may God grant you and the girls comfort in your hearts enabling you to move on from day to day one step at a time. I wish you peace & comfort at this very difficult time!!!

February 11, 2014

I am so very sorry for your loss. I first met Lillian at Catherine McAuley High School and had classes with her from freshman year through graduation. Unfortunately, after high school every one went their own way. I remember Lillian always having a smile on her face. It was so touching that you shared your photos of Lillian after high school, and I couldn't help but notice that all the photos had that infectious smile. Thank you for posting them and taking me back to our childhood, which seemed like yesterday. May your family find peace and comfort in the weeks, months and years ahead and know that your loved one will always be with you. Rest in Peace my dear high school friend, your journey and pain is over.

February 11, 2014

Lillian and I shared a special friendship for many years. We went to grammar school (Holy Family) and high school (Catherine McAuley) together, and grew up a few blocks apart in Canarsie, We used to love going to Napoli Bakery on Rockaway Parkway and eating way too many brownies and cookies. In high school, she often drove our little group of 4 to school in her white Pinto. We called ourselves the 4 muscateers-Lillian, myself, Susan Lomanto and Joanne Vanacore. We were inseparable and those memories will be with me forever. We lost touch after high school, but then reunited 5 years ago at a restaurant in Brooklyn with about 30 other Holy Family classmates. I will be forever grateful for that night, and will always cherish the many, many memories I have of my friend Lillian Venezia. My sincerest condolences to your family, Kathy, if you remember me (you were forever exposed to our antics) please accept my deepest sympathy and big hugs.

February 10, 2014

Hey Kevin:
You KNOW that the entire Windsor place block is there for you during this very sad time. How we will miss Lillian's gardening tips, gifts of plants, positive words, ever expanding menagerie, her gorgeous accordian playing at the block parties, and her stoop sale prowess!!! You both, together, inspired so many as a couple, as a family, and as the beautiful individuals you allowed each other to be. How we will miss her. And our thoughts are with you and the girls.

February 10, 2014

Lillian and I met on a beach in Spain over 25 years ago and became friends, good friends. Thinking of Lillian is remembering her beautiful spirit, how she could light up a room with laughter and brighten up your day with music.

We traveled together and made incredible trips to the Greek isles, to old cities in Holland, a road trip to Key West. Our travels will forever be a treasure of many good memories: Lillian playing the accordion on Corfu island, buying arms full of tulips on the Rotterdam market and teaching me how to make fresh pesto sauce in her kitchen in Brooklyn.

Lillian was a beautiful, caring and courageous woman who loved live and family, music, flowers and dogs. Although we lived an ocean apart, our friendship enriched my life and she will be forever in my heart.

My sincerest condolences to Kevin, the girls, family and friends

February 10, 2014

hey kevin. you know how sad i am for you and the girls. i wish you peace in the coming days, weeks, and months. i'm sorry i didn't know lillian.. i really enjoyed looking thru all her pictures here. i like knowing she played the accordion and probably brought joy to many thru her music i liked seeing the inside of your home and you all celebrating the different occasions over the years. thank you for sharing them. all my love. m.

February 10, 2014

Kevin and the girls:
Your wife and mom was an incredible person who devoted her life to caring for others. I first met Lillian in 1979, when I moved to 551 4th Street in Park Slope; Lillian was my neighbor there. We became fast friends and running buddies, frequently running around Prospect Park or down Ocean parkway to Coney Island together. In 1981, I was running the NY Marathon but had not trained well. I began falling apart at mile 20. As I entered Central Park, there was Lillian; it was like seeing an angel. She saw the distress I was in, and offered to massage my legs-i took her up on the offer. This allowed me to finish the race. It was so typical of her and something I will never forget. She died too young but the four of you brought her years of happiness and joy.
Love, Sam Himmelstein

February 10, 2014

Querido Kevin y familia.
Me diste la terrible noticia no he podido reponerme aún. Conocí a Lillian en España. Apareció en un bar donde yo tocaba canciones de Edith Piaf. Hablamos, medio en inglés medio en español de música, de acordeones, de New York... y tuve la gran fortuna de compartir música y amistad con ella. Era una persona absolutamente generosa, alegre y rebosante de humanidad. No hay palabras para aliviar el dolor, pero estoy seguro que ella ha tenido una vida muy feliz rodeada de vosotros, compartiendo vuestro amor, y todos nosotros nos sentimos afortunados de haberla conocido y haber enriquecido nuestra vida con la suya.
Todo mi amor para ella y para vosotros.
Cuco Pérez

February 10, 2014

Kevin,
I am sending you an enormous hug for it's too hard to accurately address moments like these with words. I remember meeting Lilian once and being very taken by her. What a blessing that you two shared your lives together, and created those beautiful girls. Not even cancer can take that away.
You are all in my heart and my prayers.
Much Love,
Cathy

February 10, 2014

Kevin, Alana, Melia, and Amani,

As Karen said above, the entire block is with you and here for you, embracing you during this time, and so so sad. We will all miss Lillian so very much. We will always remember her big smile and bright spirit, her gorgeous gardens, and her generosity on all levels. I'm sure someone has said above, she was truly salt of the earth. I was honored to be getting to know her better this past year, professionally - and sharing clients and working together. This was way too short.

I know what it's like to lose a mom - my mom was 56 when she died. I see that Lillian was 55. Things will never be the same, but life does go on and new things blossom.

Sending you all love and light, strength and peace.

February 9, 2014

Kevin, when I read the terrible words that your wife had passed I was in shock and felt such sadness for you and your daughters. What can a friend say to another to ease the pain? There are no magic words so I hold you, your daughters and Lillian in my thoughts and prayers. Though I never knew Lillian personally, I could see her bright spirit and love for life in her smile. How hard it had to be for her to leave you and the girls behind, for one can clearly see the love she had for you all. I pray for strength and peace to come to you and your family. This is such a hard and sad road, a road I wish you did not have to go down. Know that God is sad right with you. My heard is saddened and troubled with this news. May you find comfort in knowing that many people are holding you and your family in their thoughts, prayers and heart. – Pamela Semple (Willamette)

February 8, 2014

To Kevin, our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Lillian, you will forever remain in our hearts. You were a true fighter.

With love,
Your friends at Fighting Pretty

February 8, 2014

Kevin and family, I was saddened to here of your great loss. Altho, I never had the pleasure of meeting your best friend and wife, knowing you, she had to be a very special person. I will say prayers for you all and will be thinking of you. Much aloha, Pat Supplitt

February 8, 2014

So sorry for your loss. I know what a close-knit family you are by the way you spoke of your family at work. I'm praying for you all. May Lillian's memory be a blessing for you and your family and bring you all peace and comfort.
With love,
Diane and Luci

February 8, 2014

Kevin ,my condolences for you and you daughters . May God be with you and your daughters .

February 8, 2014

Aloha Kevin-

I am deeply saddened by your loss. The Meyer family is keeping you in their thoughts. Best to you and the Ohana.

Maui

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Recent Tributes

March 14

Lillian, thinking of you with the fondest of memories from our Holy Family days, then onto Catherine McCauley high school, where we enjoyed breaking the rules together. And of course, living just blocks apart in Canarsie was the best. What fun we had! I’m so glad I got to see you in Brooklyn after so many years had passed at one of our Holy Family gatherings. RIP, dear Lil, and prayers to your family. ❤️

March 13

Lillian, thinking of you on your birthday, and particularly of your 3 girls and Kevin. We all miss you, and remember the giving person you were. You can be proud of your girls. They are all finding their way.

Aloha, Marian

February 4

Lillian, I am so glad to be reminded that this is an important anniversary for all your family and friends...10 years since you left us. Today Kevin is with us, and we talked to Ilana. I'm sure we will be speaking of you and wishing you were here in person. I'll make contact with Malia and Imani let them know that we are thinking of them today.

Aloha, Marian Heidel

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Gallery

Your holy family classmates will always remember you.

We remembered you at our 50 year reunion. You will always be with us when we gather.

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Another anniversary

February 6, 2017

I still think about her...think about my story and how much she was a part of me. When ever I talk to anyone about my cancer story, she is always there with me, helping me navigate my emotions...cautious and careful being so fragile, but she was my rock. When I was with her, we were two women who shared something that no one wanted to share. I do not, will not forget you Lillian....

She always knew.....

March 13, 2015

I have never met anyone who just knew when you were around her what you needed. Tough love, caring words, brillant mind, funny stories....that was my experience with Lillian every week I saw her in therapy. I would virtually run when I went back to work to see her every Wednesday, never knowing what to expect in my session. She let me talk, about ANYTHING, cancer related or not. She never judged me, and knows my deepest and darkest secrets and fears. I miss you Lillian everyday. I still talk to you, and I hope you hear me. I just wish I could hear your words back to me and see that smile as we fought our way along.

We all miss you so much...Happy Birthday Lillian....you are loved...Jamie

we met and were instant friends...

February 12, 2015

My cousin Mickey (my dad's 1st cousin) worked with Lillian at Coney Island Hospital... She and Barbara needed a roommate and I needed a room..we met, and there was no question we'd get a long.... 4th st, between 8th and the Park.... Park Slope... what a great apartment. We were in our early 20's, I had friends from England and they stayed with us a while there. Then Lil, Barb and I took a trip to England and watched Janet & Martin get Married... we took a trip to Paris after the wedding.. and the rest is all a wonderful memory filled with laughter and fun.... Lil, we stayed connected until the early 90's... when grown up life got in the way... but we shared eachother's wedding memories,, and you will live on in my photo's, videos and memory forever....

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