Warren “Sonny” Vens, affectionately  known as Mr. Tennis, passed into eternity on June 2, 2017 at his residence, with his wife Joyce and son Kreig at his side.  Sonny was born July 24, 1932 in New York City.

On February 7, 1953, he married Joyce Williams, and they spent the next 64 years together, raising their sons and building happy memories.

Before retirement, Sonny co-owned Sportland Sporting Goods in Warren, and later Valhalla Racquet Club in Vienna.  He was a professional tennis teacher and coach of the Champion High School tennis team.

Sonny left a legacy of tennis to his family.  He was a ranked player in Northeast Ohio, and with his son Keith won the Ohio Father/Son championship numerous times.  They also played  the national Father/Son tournament until Sonny retired.  His son Keith went on to play with his son Kasey and later with daughter Abigail, winning the national Father/Daughter hard court tournament.  Sonny was inducted into the Trumbull County Sports Hall of Fame October 26, 2008.  He was privileged to see three generations continue to play tennis.

Sonny is survived by his wife Joyce; son Kreig of Warren; grandchildren Kasey Vens of Sylvania, Abigail Hand of Powell, Erik Vens of Liberty, and Mychal Vens of Warren; great-grandchildren Isaac, Landon, and Elise Vens, and Liam, Shane, and Ryan Hand; two brothers: Raymond Vens of Howland and Timothy Bosko of Huntington Beach, Calif.; a sister, Linda Risher of Huntington Beach; along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son Keith and his parents.

A memorial fund has been established in Sonny’s name at Champion Presbyterian Church, 4997 Mahoning Ave. NW, Warren, Ohio 44483.  At Sonny’s request, there will be no service or calling hours.  The family will gather at a later date.  Cremation has taken place.

The family would like to express deep thanks and gratitude to Dr. Gary Gibson and Hospice of the Valley, along with their staff, who took care of Sonny during his last days.

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