Nearly 300 observers packed into a ballroom in downtown Kansas City to hear stories and remembrances of Ventura. Several speakers struggled with tears and shaken voices to get through their speeches.
"God must have needed an 'Ace' in heaven," pitching coach Dave Eiland said, his voice cracking. "Well, he got one."
One by one, front-office executives and teammates shared memories of Ventura and his golden arm, as well as his colorful personality.
"When he came up in the Minors, we all wanted to know if his arm could catch up to his mouth," assistant general manager Scott Sharp said to laughter.