"Journalist Zuenir Ventura died at age 95 on Tuesday (22). Over more than six decades in journalism, Zuenir built a body of work defined by his coverage of major political events and significant social issues across the country. Zuenir is survived by his wife, Mary Ventura, and his two children, journalist Mauro Ventura and publisher Elisa Ventura.
Zuenir's daughter-in-law, Ana Roditi, said he died in his sleep, peacefully and without pain. "His body was very weak, but he still recognized family and close friends. He conversed and made witty comments about his own aging process."
A member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters, he was the seventh occupant of Chair No. 32, elected on October 30, 2014, succeeding Academician Ariano Suassuna.
A native of Além Paraíba in rural Minas Gerais state, Zuenir Ventura worked as a house painter, office boy, basketball player, archivist, university professor, and journalist. His mentors included major literary figures such as Manuel Bandeira, Alceu Amoroso Lima, and Cleonice Berardinelli."
