James Russo

James enlisted in the United States Army right after high school. He was honorably discharged and earned a bronze star for his service in the Pacific Theater during WWII. James met and married the love of his life Elizabeth Smith Russo. They had 8 children, 21 grandchildren and 38 great grandchildren. They were married for 40 years. Their doors were always open to family and friends.

He was a hard worker. He worked for Joe Wiggen Office Supply for many years until he owned and operated JVR Maintenance Inc. James enjoyed horse and dog races, golf and traveling. He also enjoyed meeting up with his buddies at MacDonald's every morning for coffee. His kindness, wisdom, wit and endless supply of "real life" stories will be missed.

James leaves behind his children: Sandra Aceto and her husband Joe of Portland, Catherine Russo of Portland, Rose Marie Whitman of Portland, Carol Miles and her husband Richard of Portland, James Gregory Russo and his wife Rhonda of Portland, Cynthia Simmons of Scarborough, Brenda Russo and her companion Mike Dyer of S. Portland, Mary Jo Lawry and her husband Michael of TX; his siblings: Philomenia Anderson of Portland, Rose Rumo of S. Portland, Mary Reidy of FL, Juliet Hill of Portland and many nieces and nephews. He also will be missed by his loyal friend and employee for 30 years, George Leveque.

James was predeceased by his wife Elizabeth Russo and siblings: Ralph, Kay, Millie, Fred, and Alfonse.

The Russo Family would like to give a special thanks to the nurses and staff at the Maine Veteran's Home for the wonderful care they gave our father.

Family and friends are invited to a time of Visitation from 1-3 pm and 5-8 pm, Monday, May 14, 2012 at Jones, Rich & Hutchins 199 Woodford St. Portland. Prayers will be recited at the funeral home on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at 9:00 am followed by A Mass of Christian Burial 10 am, at St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church 72 Federal St. Portland.

In lieu of flowers Memorial Donations may be made to the Maine Veteran's Home Alzheimer's Unit 290 US Rte. 1 Scarborough, 04074 or Camp Sunshine at www.campsunshine.org 35 Acadia Rd. Casco, ME 04015 207-655-3800

Please visit www.jonesrichandhutchins.com for additional information and to sign James' guestbook.