Michael M. Vene, 47, of Ashland and formerly of Natick, died unexpectedly, Saturday, June 10, 2006, at MetroWest Hospital. Michael was the husband of MaryLynn Vene and father of Nikki Vene. Born in Rochester, NY and raised in Natick, he was son of the Pierrette L. Vene, Fredericksburg, VA and the late Joseph M. Vene. Educated in the Natick school system, Michael was a graduate of Natick High School and the University of Massachusetts. He was also a veteran of the Navy. Michael was very proud to have held the position of Director of Store Design for Staples, Inc, Framingham. He was a man known for his infinite optimism and sense of humor. He had a passion for living, each day, managing to always leave the house for work with a smile on his face. He will be remembered as a man with no regrets who loved every second he spent with his family. Everything he put his mind to, he accomplished with his awe-inspiring artistic talent. His music and artwork only touch upon the connection he had to success. He took such pride in all he obtained and stood loyal to each of his values. Michael, a dedicated husband, father, and artist will never be forgotten. He is, and will always be cherished by all who have ever been touched by his essence. Besides his wife, child and mother, he leaves two sisters, Linda Vene and her husband Casmir Etoundi and Lisa (Vene) Alessi and her husband and his close friend, Robert Alessi and his niece and nephew, Marie and James. A memorial gathering will be held in Mr. Vene's honor from 4-8:00 PM on Friday June 16th at the Matarese Funeral Home, (mataresefuneral@comcast.net), 325 Main Street, Ashland, MA 01721. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Mr. Vene's honor to Baypath Humane Society, PO Box 23, Hopkinton, MA 01748-0023.