Frank Venuto

Frank Venuto, 72, of Leland, Michigan (formerly Haslett, Michigan) passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Known for his optimistic authenticity and a zest for life that made many believe he might outlive us all, Frank lived with an energy that was as infectious as it was tireless. Born on October 24, 1953, Frank grew up in Birmingham, Michigan, graduating from Seaholm High School in 1971. His journey took him to Northern Michigan University, where he met the love of his life, Mary. After graduating in 1976, he went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Cooley Law School in 1984. Frank and Mary raised their daughters in Haslett while Frank built a distinguished career in Lansing as an attorney and lobbyist. In the halls of the Capitol, Frank was far more than a professional; he was a fixture of character and kindness. Whether he was greeting colleagues with a nickname or offering counsel on life issues rather than just legislation, Frank led with his heart. He was well-respected and known for his willingness to reach across the political aisle. He was a man of immense humility who, even with decades of experience, was always eager to learn from others. Frank’s true joy was his family. He was a man who loved fiercely, and anyone who met him knew of his pride for his girls. He valued time with them above all else, bringing magic into their lives every day, especially on birthdays and Christmases. He shared a beautiful 50-year marriage with Mary, a partnership built on a foundation of deep Catholic faith and a shared devotion to God. They were true partners and best friends. Frank was a man of the outdoors—happiest when skiing, skating, playing hockey, or fishing. He loved spending his Saturdays with the men from the St. Mary’s men’s group to discuss faith and life. He approached his hobbies with the same youthful spirit he brought to his roles as a husband, father, and the world’s most adoring "Grandpa/Papa." He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his three daughters, Natalie (Grant) Hawkins, Melissa (Derek) Rothhaar, and Olivia (Terry) Sieting; and his four cherished grandchildren, Leo, Charlie, James, and Harper. He also leaves behind his siblings Rena (Bob), Frances, Tony (Sylvia), and Annamarie, along with many loving in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Americo and Antoinette Venuto. The Venuto family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the medical staff on the A7 neurology unit at Munson Medical Center for the tender, dignified care they provided Frank, and for the compassion shown to the family during this heartbreaking time. A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Lake Leelanau on Saturday, April 18, at 11:00 AM, with a reception to follow at the Leland Lodge. The Rosary will be prayed prior to the Mass at 10:30 AM for those who wish to join. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Frank’s honor to: St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church Men's Group (Lake Leelanau), Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD) Foundation https://cjdfoundation.org/donate/ or to The Leelanau Conservancy https://leelanauconservancy.org/donate/

Frank Venuto

October 24, 1953 - March 9, 2026