Venetia Bryers

Resided in Gladstone, MI
Died February 27, 2010

Venetia Ann Bryers, passed away peacefully, in her sleep early Saturday morning on February 27, 2010. She was 58 and has suffered from cardiac and blood pressure problems for a number of years.
Venetia was preceded in death by her mother, LaVerne (Hinze) Bryers and father, Wayne Bryers. She leaves behind her brother, Dirk Manson and his wife, Susan, with whom she was especially close. Nephews, Bert (Mary) Manson and David (Cheryl Marie) Manson, great nieces and nephews, Jaena, Jeremy, Joshua, Robert, Siera and Mitchell. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

Other than family, Venetia was blessed to have a number of very special

0 Tributes for “Venetia Bryers

    Venetia came into my life when she was a teenager in high school. She and her friend Dave would come in to City Drug Store for coke and conversation. In her college years she came in with Father Marcotte when she was home and we had many debates about politics, war and everything and anything. It was rewarding to watch Ventia transform the ambulance service in to what it is today. She not only helped Upper Michigan have a better ambulance service but all of rural Michigan. Often times, rules and regulations were going to be proposed that would have prevented the rural areas from upgrading the services. She often went to Lansing to voice her objections and she usually prevailed. While serving as Director of Pharmacy Services at OSF, I was privileged to help her when the EMT’s were allowed to carry medicatiions on the ambulances. We went through many phases before we finally developed a good workable system for stocking and replenishing medicaitons on the ambulances. I stand in awe of her accomplishments. She will be missed
    Shirley Leveille
    Gladstone, MI

    I worked with Venetia while being the Post Commander at the State Police Post in Gladstone. We always had the upmost respect and admiration for the young lady doing an excellent and admirable job that she enjoyed doing.

    Richard Schave
    Garden, MI

    Apparently her purpose in life was accomplished SO WELL, she left us far to early. The angels are rejoicing to have this elite woman among them. My sincere sympathy to all of Venitia’s family, especially my good friends and faithful volunteers, Dirk and Sue.

    Maryce Farrell
    Rapid River, MI

    It is with great sadness we learned of Venetia’s sudden passing. Our sympathy to everyone in Gladstone and around the world who knew and loved this exceptional lady. God must have needed Ramparts up there on the streets of gold!

    Al & Dolly Salmi
    Rapid River, MI

    Dirk and Sue: So sorry about Venetia, she was the best neighbor. We will miss her dearly. She offered to help us anytime we asked. If you need any help around her house-don’t hjesitate to ask. Paul and Judith. She is in our prayers

    Paul and Judith
    Gladstone, MI

    What a loss for all of us. I keep waiting for the phone to ring. Vin asking how my day is going, asking about Alana and Snuffles and when am I coming to Gladstone. Can I pick up antipasto salads from Casa. She was such a great friend, mentor,sister, aunt, Paramedic, EMT, boss and caretaker. She will be missed, she has touched the hearts of many. I will cherish the memories of the times we spent together. Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. This has been a tremendous shock on us all. She was a lot of things to many people and will be missed tremendously. What moves through us is a silence, a quiet sadness, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch, we may not understand why you left this earth so soon, or why you left before we were ready to say good-bye, but little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget. My heart and my tears are with you. Norma

    Norma J. Semashko
    Marquette , MI

    Alhough I lost touch with Venetia after high school, my Escanaba family often told me about all the great things she was accomplishing in the community. It is clear that she was sincerely dedicated and devoted to her work, her family, her pets, and to anyone else who had the good fortune to cross her path. Venetia, you make us proud!

    Sue LeMire
    Ann Arbor, MI

    I have only known Venetia for a short period of time, but in that time I learned what a special person she was. Venetia went out of her way to help when my father was ill and I will never forget what she did to help my family. Venetia will be missed, but the memories we have of her will live on forever. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this hard time!

    Gretchen Grzyb
    Escanaba, MI

    It was a shock to hear of Venetia’s death. She was a kind compassionate lady who used her skills and knowledge to benefit and help the community. She impacted many lives and will be greatly missed. She was a blessing to many including our family. When Dad was very ill with his cancer, Mom turned to Venetia to ask her advice on what needed to be done if Dad passed away at home. Venetia told her to call her and she would send over the EMTs to verify his death and she would call the funeral home. She was true to her word. When Dad died, even though Venetia was at the conference in Detroit, she took the call and made all the arrangements. Venetia was always ready to lending a helping hand when needed. Keeping you all in my prayers.

    Sr. Lethia Marie Leveille O.S.F.
    Mishawaka, IN

    To the family of Venetia Bryers,
    As a comunity involved worker for Michigan Works for years, I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Venetia.. That was a blessing from God, she was a true christian with all the love she placed forth to the youth that we both came in contact with. I also enjoy having friends in Bert and Mary, so I wish you all Peace from The Christ we all serve, as she did. Know that she has taken on Angels wings, Angels grace and Angels ability to keep her loved ones safe and comforted. I have you all in my daily prayers for your period of loss and grief. My sympathies to you all ..God bless you. God bless her life and what she gave forth of herself to our community. I wish I could be there to celebrate her life. know that I feel for your loss.

    Electa Ann Shepeck
    Phoenix, AZ

    We will always remember Venetia for a very special gift she gave us. She was at the scene, as she was at so many, of Chelsey & Tim’s accident on Feb 26, 2002. Although we knew our daughter was gone we asked Venetia if we could have some time with Chelsey in the ambulance. We will never forget her graciously granting us this request as it was very important for us at that moment. Words cannot describe how much those few minutes have meant to us since. We’ve wondered many times since that night, how many of these scenes Venetia had responded to, and how many people involved in tragedy were made a little more comfortable by her presence there. She will always remain a real angel to us.

    Doug and Robin Hewitt
    Gladstone, MI

    I had only know Venetia for a short time, but she was the kind of person that made you feel like you had know her all your life. She was very easy to work with. I will keep her family and friends in my prayers.

    Chic Hakes
    Gwinn, MI

    So saddened to hear of my cousin Venetia’s passing this week. She was a very gracious host for many Bryers gatherings. Good times were had at her house in Gladstone. She will be greatly missed. I know she was especially close to Dirk, Sue and family. She spoke of you often. Our prayers are with the entire Bryers family, as well as Dirk & Sue, as we are all saddened by the many losses we have had to bear this past year.

    Brian Wiley & Beverly Bryers-Wiley
    Swartz Creek, MI

    Venetia taught EMT classes in Garden, and I was under her tutulege in 1980 or so. She was a great instructor and we all looked forward to more each week. I’m glad she went quickly and quietly in her sleep. Since 1980 I’ve become an RN and the way the system works often robs people of a peaceful end. Although Venetia was too young to die, she will be fondly remembered by many. She had a large presence and I was very fond of her.

    Cindy Olson
    Minneapolis, MN

    Dear Dirk, Sue and Family…
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Venetia left quite a legacy to Escanaba and will be remembered with love.

    Patrick & Merilee Radgens
    Lakeland, FL

    Venetia loved her dogs. I was her pet sitter for many years and she treated her dogs as the friends they were to her. They always had the nicest lives. I never met Cello but I know he will miss his Mom alot.

    Jill Ingebrigtsen
    Escanaba, MI

    Our thoughts and prayers are with Venetia’s family and friends. Her legacy will live on within the EMS family and in the community. Venetia was an important part of our son’s life when he stayed with Auntie Mickey and Uncle Mike for three months back in 2003/2004 when we were deployed. Joshua enjoyed his Saturday morning breakfasts at Rosie’s visiting with Ventia. You will be greatly missed!

    Mike, Patti, Joshua and Jared Lawrence
    Newport News, VA

    You were truly an icon, not only in your community, but the EMS community as well. You will be truly missed, however, your spirit will continue to live on through those you have touched.

    David Slifka
    Harbor Springs. MI

    We will miss you Venetia! We have had a wonderful role-model in EMS, she really did make it what it is today. A remarkable woman is gone, but she has left so much to remember and respect…never to be forgotten!

    Marnell Patrick
    Rock, MI

    Dirk, Sue and Family:
    So very sorry to hear of the sudden passing of sister and Aunt. You are in our thoughts and prayers’

    Dave and Evelyn Olson
    Harbor Springs, MI

    I was so saddened to learn of Venetia’s passing. The world of EMS will miss her. When I was a student paramedic, I had the unique opportunity to experience Venetia’s guidance, humor, and the unique relationship she had with her EMS staff and with her community. Even as a student, I never felt that I was an outsider. I am grateful to have had her as one of my mentors. The excellent experiences I had at Rampart were directly the result of the influence Venetia had with her staff and how approachable she was. Venetia was no nonsense and knew how to get the job done. In Iron County, Venetia was one of the strongest influences in the growth and development of our ALS EMS service and the quality staff that developed in those early days. From Greater Iron County EMS to Northstar EMS, we have Venetia to thank for a good portion of our legacy. It was a privilege to have known her and offer my sincere sympathies to her family.

    LaVerne Smith
    Alpha, MI

    May Almighty God of all Comfort and tender mercies
    Comfort the Byers family (2Co.1:3,4), When the last enemy strikes grief may be great and Make the heart yearn for Comfort, Almighty God Gives HOPE and PROMISE at (JOHN 5:28, ACTS 24:15, ISAIAH 26:19 and REVELATION 21:4) His HOPE and PROMISE SOON TO BE ATTAIN, May these thoughts be of some Comfort. gingerrobinson@bellsouth.net

    Ginger Robinson
    Joaquin, TX

    I am so sorry for your loss. Nancy and I will direct our contribution to the funeral home.

    Ed Havlik
    Anna Maria, FL

    So sorry to hear of Venetia’s passing. The loss of a sibling leaves a big hole in one’s heart. Take care. See you when we get home.

    Mary Sue Elegreet
    Leesburg, FL

    Venetia, you contributed immensely to your community, and were highly regarded by everyone. Your premature passing has brought sorrow to many, but our prayers are with you. Be at Peace, always.

    Bruce Gustafson
    Marquette, MI

    Venetia was a star and role model for all of us in EMS. Her star will now continue to shine down on all of us from above. RIP

    Glenda Dolehanty
    Swartz Creek, MI

    We’re so shocked to hear of Venetia’s passing. Our sympathies to Dirk, Sue and the boys. If we were home we’d certainly be at the funeral. I have many memories of Venetia as we both attended All Saints, but I remember the time she picked me up and placed me on the hood of a car. The antenna was cut off and she got a cut on her hand. I’m sure that scar was a constant reminder of me:) Venetia was such a great asset to our community and will be strongly missed.

    Rick and Judy Ebbesen
    Gladstone, MI

    I was shocked and saddened to hear of Venetia’s passing. She was truly a wonderful and positive person and professional. Everyone that had the chance to interact with her either professionally or socially is fortunate to have had the opportunity. The community will miss her, and I know I certainly will.

    Mark Hager
    Gladstone, MI

    Venetia Bryers is a friend of a friend from Marquette General Hospital in Marquette, MI. She visited the Richards in Fort Pierce, FL and we got to know her. She was a friendly women and enjoyed fishing with us. We where sorry to hear about her unexpected death and want to send our sympathy to the family.

    Sharon & John Shaffer
    Gwinn, MI

    What a horribly sad day to hear we have lost Venetia. Words cannot express the incredibly amazing woman she was. We feel blessed that our lives were touched by her. We will miss you Venetia and will always remember the times you were there for us when we needed you. Heaven must be celebrating your presence,as much as we are now mourning your loss. See you on the other side.

    Bill & Amy Johnson
    Escanaba, MI

    Venetia came into my life when she was a teenager in high school. She and her friend Dave would come in to City Drug Store for coke and conversation.
    In her college years she came in with Father Marcotte when she was home and we had many debates about politics, war and everything and anything.

    It was rewarding to watch Ventia transform the ambulance service in to what it is today. She not only helped Upper Michigan have a better ambulance service but all of rural Michigan. Often times, rules and regulations were going to be proposed that would have prevented the rural areas from upgrading the services. She often went to Lansing to voice her objections and she usually prevailed.
    While serving as Director of Pharmacy Services at OSF, I was privileged to help her when the EMT’s were allowed to carry medicatiions on the ambulances. We went through many phases before we finally developed a good workable system for stocking and replenishing medicaitons on the ambulances. I stand in awe of her accomplishments.

    She will be missed

    Shirley Leveille
    Gladstone, MI

    I worked with Venetia while being the Post Commander at the State Police Post in Gladstone. We always had the upmost respect and admiration for the young lady doing an excellent and admirable job that she enjoyed doing.

    Richard Schave
    Garden, MI

    Apparently her purpose in life was accomplished SO WELL, she left us far to early. The angels are rejoicing to have this elite woman among them. My sincere sympathy to all of Venitia’s family, especially my good friends and faithful volunteers, Dirk and Sue.

    Maryce Farrell
    Rapid River, MI

    It is with great sadness we learned of Venetia’s sudden passing. Our sympathy to everyone in Gladstone and around the world who knew and loved this exceptional lady. God must have needed Ramparts up there on the streets of gold!

    Al & Dolly Salmi
    Rapid River, MI

    Dirk and Sue: So sorry about Venetia, she was the best neighbor. We will miss her dearly. She offered to help us anytime we asked. If you need any help around her house-don’t hjesitate to ask.
    Paul and Judith. She is in our prayers

    Paul and Judith
    Gladstone, MI

    What a loss for all of us. I keep waiting for the phone to ring. Vin asking how my day is going, asking about Alana and Snuffles and when am I coming to Gladstone. Can I pick up antipasto salads from Casa. She was such a great friend, mentor,sister, aunt, Paramedic, EMT, boss and caretaker. She will be missed, she has touched the hearts of many. I will cherish the memories of the times we spent together. Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family. This has been a tremendous shock on us all. She was a lot of things to many people and will be missed tremendously. What moves through us is a silence, a quiet sadness, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch, we may not understand why you left this earth so soon, or why you left before we were ready to say good-bye, but little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget. My heart and my tears are with you.
    Norma

    Norma J. Semashko
    Marquette , MI

    Alhough I lost touch with Venetia after high school, my Escanaba family often told me about all the great things she was accomplishing in the community. It is clear that she was sincerely dedicated and devoted to her work, her family, her pets, and to anyone else who had the good fortune to cross her path. Venetia, you make us proud!

    Sue LeMire
    Ann Arbor, MI

    I have only known Venetia for a short period of time, but in that time I learned what a special person she was. Venetia went out of her way to help when my father was ill and I will never forget what she did to help my family. Venetia will be missed, but the memories we have of her will live on forever.
    My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this hard time!

    Gretchen Grzyb
    Escanaba, MI

    It was a shock to hear of Venetia’s death. She was a kind compassionate lady who used her skills and knowledge to benefit and help the community. She impacted many lives and will be greatly missed. She was a blessing to many including our family. When Dad was very ill with his cancer, Mom turned to Venetia to ask her advice on what needed to be done if Dad passed away at home. Venetia told her to call her and she would send over the EMTs to verify his death and she would call the funeral home. She was true to her word. When Dad died, even though Venetia was at the conference in Detroit, she took the call and made all the arrangements. Venetia was always ready to lending a helping hand when needed. Keeping you all in my prayers.

    Sr. Lethia Marie Leveille O.S.F.
    Mishawaka, IN

    To the family of Venetia Bryers,
    As a community involved worker for Michigan Works for years, I had the wonderful opportunity to work with Venetia.. That was a blessing from God, she was a true christian with all the love she placed forth to the youth that we both came in contact with. I also enjoy having friends in Bert and Mary, so I wish you all Peace from The Christ we all serve, as she did. Know that she has taken on Angels wings, Angels grace and Angels ability to keep her loved ones safe and comforted. I have you all in my daily prayers for your period of loss and grief. My sympathies to you all ..God bless you. God bless her life and what she gave forth of herself to our community. I wish I could be there to celebrate her life. know that I feel for your loss.

    Electa Ann Shepeck
    Phoenix, AZ

    We will always remember Venetia for a very special gift she gave us. She was at the scene, as she was at so many, of Chelsey & Tim’s accident on Feb 26, 2002. Although we knew our daughter was gone we asked Venetia if we could have some time with Chelsey in the ambulance. We will never forget her graciously granting us this request as it was very important for us at that moment. Words cannot describe how much those few minutes have meant to us since. We’ve wondered many times since that night, how many of these scenes Venetia had responded to, and how many people involved in tragedy were made a little more comfortable by her presence there. She will always remain a real angel to us.

    Doug and Robin Hewitt
    Gladstone, MI

    I had only know Venetia for a short time, but she was the kind of person that made you feel like you had know her all your life. She was very easy to work with. I will keep her family and friends in my prayers.

    Chic Hakes
    Gwinn, MI

    So saddened to hear of my cousin Venetia’s passing this week. She was a very gracious host for many Bryers gatherings. Good times were had at her house in Gladstone. She will be greatly missed. I know she was especially close to Dirk, Sue and family. She spoke of you often.

    Our prayers are with the entire Bryers family, as well as Dirk & Sue, as we are all saddened by the many losses we have had to bear this past year.

    Brian Wiley & Beverly Bryers-Wiley
    Swartz Creek, MI

    Venetia taught EMT classes in Garden, and I was under her tutulege in 1980 or so. She was a great instructor and we all looked forward to more each week. I’m glad she went quickly and quietly in her sleep. Since 1980 I’ve become an RN and the way the system works often robs people of a peaceful end. Although Venetia was too young to die, she will be fondly remembered by many. She had a large presence and I was very fond of her.

    Cindy Olson
    Minneapolis, MN

    Dear Dirk, Sue and Family…

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Venetia left quite a legacy to Escanaba and will be remembered with love.

    Patrick & Merilee Radgens
    Lakeland, FL

    Venetia loved her dogs. I was her pet sitter for many years and she treated her dogs as the friends they were to her. They always had the nicest lives. I never met Cello but I know he will miss his Mom alot.

    Jill Ingebrigtsen
    Escanaba, MI

    Our thoughts and prayers are with Venetia’s family and friends. Her legacy will live on within the EMS family and in the community. Venetia was an important part of our son’s life when he stayed with Auntie Mickey and Uncle Mike for three months back in 2003/2004 when we were deployed. Joshua enjoyed his Saturday morning breakfasts at Rosie’s visiting with Ventia. You will be greatly missed!

    Mike, Patti, Joshua and Jared Lawrence
    Newport News, VA

    You were truly an icon, not only in your community, but the EMS community as well. You will be truly missed, however, your spirit will continue to live on through those you have touched.

    David Slifka
    Harbor Springs. MI

    We will miss you Venetia! We have had a wonderful role-model in EMS, she really did make it what it is today. A remarkable woman is gone, but she has left so much to remember and respect…never to be forgotten!

    Marnell Patrick
    Rock, MI

    Dirk, Sue and Family:
    So very sorry to hear of the sudden passing of sister and Aunt. You are in our thoughts and prayers’

    Dave and Evelyn Olson
    Harbor Springs, MI

    I was so saddened to learn of Venetia’s passing. The world of EMS will miss her.

    When I was a student paramedic, I had the unique opportunity to experience Venetia’s guidance, humor, and the unique relationship she had with her EMS staff and with her community. Even as a student, I never felt that I was an outsider.

    I am grateful to have had her as one of my mentors. The excellent experiences I had at Rampart were directly the result of the influence Venetia had with her staff and how approachable she was.

    Venetia was no nonsense and knew how to get the job done. In Iron County, Venetia was one of the strongest influences in the growth and development of our ALS EMS service and the quality staff that developed in those early days. From Greater Iron County EMS to Northstar EMS, we have Venetia to thank for a good portion of our legacy.

    It was a privilege to have known her and offer my sincere sympathies to her family.

    LaVerne Smith
    Alpha, MI

    May Almighty God of all Comfort and tender mercies
    Comfort the Byers family (2Co.1:3,4),

    When the last enemy strikes grief may be great and Make the heart yearn for Comfort, Almighty God Gives HOPE and PROMISE at (JOHN 5:28, ACTS 24:15, ISAIAH 26:19 and REVELATION 21:4) His HOPE and PROMISE SOON TO BE ATTAIN, May these thoughts be of some Comfort. gingerrobinson@bellsouth.net

    Ginger Robinson
    Joaquin, TX

    I am so sorry for your loss. Nancy and I will direct our contribution to the funeral home.

    Ed Havlik
    Anna Maria, FL

    So sorry to hear of Venetia’s passing. The loss of a sibling leaves a big hole in one’s heart. Take care. See you when we get home.

    Mary Sue Elegreet
    Leesburg, FL

    Venetia, you contributed immensely to your community, and were highly regarded by everyone. Your premature passing has brought sorrow to many, but our prayers are with you. Be at Peace, always.

    Bruce Gustafson
    Marquette, MI

    Venetia was a star and role model for all of us in EMS. Her star will now continue to shine down on all of us from above. RIP

    Glenda Dolehanty
    Swartz Creek, MI

    We’re so shocked to hear of Venetia’s passing. Our sympathies to Dirk, Sue and the boys. If we were home we’d certainly be at the funeral.

    I have many memories of Venetia as we both attended All Saints, but I remember the time she picked me up and placed me on the hood of a car. The antenna was cut off and she got a cut on her hand. I’m sure that scar was a constant reminder of me:)

    Venetia was such a great asset to our community and will be strongly missed.

    Rick and Judy Ebbesen
    Gladstone, MI

    I was shocked and saddened to hear of Venetia’s passing. She was truly a wonderful and positive person and professional. Everyone that had the chance to interact with her either professionally or socially is fortunate to have had the opportunity. The community will miss her, and I know I certainly will.

    Mark Hager
    Gladstone, MI

    Venetia Bryers is a friend of a friend from Marquette General Hospital in Marquette, MI. She visited the Richards in Fort Pierce, FL and we got to know her. She was a friendly women and enjoyed fishing with us. We where sorry to hear about her unexpected death and want to send our sympathy to the family.

    Sharon & John Shaffer
    Gwinn, MI

    What a horribly sad day to hear we have lost Venetia. Words cannot express the incredibly amazing woman she was. We feel blessed that our lives were touched by her.

    We will miss you Venetia and will always remember the times you were there for us when we needed you. Heaven must be celebrating your presence,as much as we are now mourning your loss. See you on the other side.

    Bill & Amy Johnson
    Escanaba, MI

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