John Clay Venneman, 74 of Bellefontaine, passed away on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Saint Rita's hospital in Lima. He was born December 12, 1948 in Cincinnati, Ohio the son of the late Ben and Mable DeVoss Venneman. John was a 1967 graduate of Triad high school. He retired in 2010 as a heavy equipment  mechanic from MH equipment company in Dayton, Ohio.  John was an old car enthusiast.  In the 70s and 80s he played fast pitch softball as a pitcher and first baseman for Urbana auto sales and the Ohio Caverns.  He was an avid fan of the Cleveland Browns the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Cleveland Guardians as well as Notre Dame. Survivors include his wife, Vikki Miller Venneman of 32 years; his son, Andrew (Desiree) Venneman; four grandchildren Zane (currently attending the University of Cincinnati), Alicia, Isaac, and Elliott; cousins, Jim (Pat) Craig and Nancy (Jim) George. In keeping with John's wishes, he will be cremated, and the services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are in the care of Jennings Farley & Seeley Funeral Home and Crematory West Liberty, Ohio. In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American heart association or the American diabetes association.