Joseph D. Russo “Joe”, 64, loving husband to Anita (Camilleri) Russo of 41 years, of Wethersfield and Old Lyme, CT, passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness on November 8th, surrounded by family and friends. He was born in New Britain, CT on November 29, 1954 to Sebastian and Carmela (Tralongo) Russo of New Britain, CT.
Joe was a graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas High School and Tunxis Community College. He and his brother Sal were the co-founders and owners of City Oil Company.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Anita; two sons, Michael J. Russo and his wife Sarah and her children Briana and Camden of Berlin, CT; Joseph S. Russo and his wife Alison of Wethersfield, CT; and his beautiful granddaughters, Camille Anne and Vivienne Carmela, who were the light of his life. He also leaves his brother, Salvatore S. Russo and his wife Teresa of Old Lyme; his sister, Paula Sisti of Farmington; his brother-in-law, Anthony and wife Mary Anne Camilleri; and sister-in-law, Gloria and husband Peter O’Keefe. Joe also leaves behind his many special nieces and nephews; extended beach family; “Broskis” and friends who were near and dear to his heart. He is now reunited with his parents; his in-laws, Salvatore and Gloria Camilleri; and his brother-in-law, Kevin Sisti.
The world will never meet another “Joe Russo”. He was a charismatic, generous man with a passion for life; a love of the beach and great meals on the deck with friends and family. He taught us the true meaning of “family”. He showed us that family is not limited to your relatives, it includes your friends. To know Joe was to love him. He has left us all with memories that we will forever cherish.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday November 16, 2019 at the Church of the Incarnation, 544 Prospect Street, Wethersfield. There will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to: Attn: Laura Schmelter, Connecticut Children's Medical Center Foundation, 282 Washington Street, Hartford, CT 06106. The New Britain Memorial - Donald D. Sagarino Funeral Home 444 Farmington Ave. New Britain is assisting the family. For online condolences please visit newbritansagarino.com.