Helen...I just read about your wonderful hubby.. I am so so sorry,
He did always have a story and a smile. Last time I saw you both was at the Bistro on Venice Ave.. Time goes by so quick and I am glad I met you two ..some folks  come into our lives & we never forget 
them .  Hugs ...Mary Lou & Tod Lotz 
(Tod retired 2 yrs ago)

Dear Russo family,
It's been more years than I care to relate since I first met the Russo family on Thanksgiving Day,  having been invited quite the last minute by my very good friend, Tony.    Mom, Dad, Charles and Benny accepted me into their home where I was treated as though I were a cherished friend or family member.    The graciousness, the warmth and the camaraderie within the family were evident from the start, and every time I saw them since, that never waivered.   I'll always remember Charles for his warmth, his wit and his smile.   As I look through the photos, I see the richness of his life, and that he touched many people.  I consider myself fortunate to have been one of them. 
In sympathy and with love,
Dan Facilla 

Easter at Bob and Ann’s - Oak Forest, Englewood, Florida. Love this picture. 

Uncle Charlie was one of the best men I’ve ever known. He always taught me to be proud of myself, my family, and the gifts the universe have given us as a family. He taught me how to believe in myself at a time when I didn’t know how to. What a blessing it was to have the time together we did. I remember one time when I was around 14, we were at a famous Russo bbq and uncle Charlie and I were talking about confidence, and he told me, “just do what I do. Know you’re the handsomest guy in the room.” I love you Uncle Charlie. Here’s to the handsomest guy in the room 🙂

Hi Aunt Helen,
First of all,  I'm so sorry that I won't be there to remember the life and share old times about uncle Charlie.  I'll always remember coming to visit and he was always so helpful in everything he did.  He always had the greatest laugh and was always willing to lend a hand when needed.  I always loved talking with  him about when he grew up and childhood memories.  He will surely be missed by everyone!!  Thank you aunt Helen for allowing me to come and stay with you all these years. It certainly will be different without your husband, but just keep smilling and always try to remember all the good times you've had.  I love you aunt Helen and I'll see you soon!

Richie Fauvell

Dear Aunt Helen, Charlie, Frank, and the entire family, 
Tim and I are so very sorry to miss the celebration of Uncle Charlie's life.  And he had a full one!  We will always remember our adventures together.  All the Cronin family has fun stories of you both from fishing to dancing and always laughter. We know that the last few years have been especially painful and that you have all been strong and supportive of one another every step of the way.  Aunt Helen, thank you for including the Cronin kids as part of your family in a very special way.  I can remember when you and Uncle Charlie first met and my sisters and I and you giggling about your dates.  And then we were a part of the wedding.  What a thrill for all of us to be junior bridesmaids.  So many times together and stories since then.  Thank you. We will always hold a special spot in our hearts for Uncle Charlie. Whenever we hear an oldies on his special radio station we will sing along and picture the 4 of us dancing together.   God is holding him now and he is without pain. Love you all, Kathy & Tim

Uncle Charles,
I appreciate your laughter smile and unique sense of humor...May your Transition be peaceful knowing how much you are Loved.

Love you ,
Steve Cosban 

Dear Helen and Family,
I’m sorry to learn that Charlie has passed.  I will treasure the wonderful wood plaques he made that I have all the more.  May your friends and family provide the support you need and help you relive wonderful memories.
Elaine Holda, Oak Forest

Helen,
Jack and I want to extend our deepest condolences.  Charlie was a great guy!  He was determined to beat his illness and you were always there to spur him on.
We fondly remember him sitting at his work bench making all his magical figurines.
Please take care of yourself and again we are so sorry for your loss.
Margy & Jack Greene
1074 Topelis Drive

Aunt Helen,

We’re so sorry to hear about Uncle Charlie.
We’re sending so much love to you and the whole family.
Love,
Katie and Matti

We always loved Charles…he was a fun loving person with a larger than life personality.
Our deepest condolences from our family to yours and we will never forget all the times we enjoyed together in Brooklyn growing up, in Florida and in Jersey.
Rest in peace with no more suffering,
The Tarantino Family

Many of God’s Blessings pour out to the Family. We love you bunches.

Charlie -
We are so sorry for your loss. We are sending our deepest condolences to you and your family. 
Hugs and kisses.
Love, Donny, Robin, and Shawn xoxo

My Grandchildren stayed with me during Covid. The Russo’s made them feel so special everyday while on our neighborhood walks or bike rides. Charlie made two of his special painted, wooden cutouts for Declan and Maddie and I sincerely appreciated his thoughtfulness. 
May he rest in peace in God’s loving hands.
Angie Campbell

Dear Helen 
I met you and Charlie when I first moved to Oak Forest; I was walking my dog and you called me over to give her a treat.  I enjoyed our conversations and marveled at Charlie's artistry.  He was a courageous man and fought to the end.  May he rest in peace.
Sincerely 
Joan and Penny

So sorry for your lost.  Charlie fought hard, but it was not to be.  We will miss bowling, Monday night cards and Charlies wood characters.  He was a talent.  We have many fond memories.  Rest in Peace friend.
Hugs,
Arlene & Bill Hoffmann  

To Helen and family,  I am very sorry to hear of Charlie’s passing I always enjoyed his company here at Oak Forest. He was a great guy and will be missed by all who know him
Rest in peace my dear friend. John Kustigian 

Dear Helen and Family,

 My condolences with the passing of your husband. The two of you shared all of your time together as you enjoyed life in Florida.
Hoping the many memories you created with Charlie will comfort you in the days ahead.

With deepest sympathy,
Linda Muir

So sorry to hear about Charles. He certainly will be missed. He left a legacy with his many wooden plaques he’s painted over the years—very talented. Prayers that you find comfort he’s not in pain and that you had a great life together 🥰. Love, Carole & family

To my dear Helen and family,
It is with such sadness that a very kind, generous and lovely man has left us and will be an empty space in our lives. I had the pleasure of sharing many an evening with Charlie and Helen when they were here and enjoyed the fun and laughter during those times. He was such a talented woodworker and shared so many of his creations with friends and my grandchildren were delighted with his characters he created for them. I will miss his laughter and hold his smile in my memories as I wish him God’s speed home. 

Dear Aunt Helen cousin Charles, Frank and family,
I am heartbroken to learn that Charlie, died. There are no words to describe what I feel for you all. You have all been through so much worry and pain these past few years; I hope you can take some solace in knowing Charlie fought a great fight with Helen and family  by his side and now he can rest. I also hope that in time, you can get pasts this horrible period and begin to remember only the wonderful times you had together. He was such a special person.
I’ve known Uncle Charlie for almost 60 years. Remember when you lived in Queens so long ago.  We saw each other all the time. I will always remember our fishing trips, his great sense of humor and his love for you. 
I was always impressed with the relationship you two had, Helen. Both in good times and bad, you always where there for each other. Helen, I am so sad for you and for your kids. 
I know what it is like to lose your partner and your best friend. That love you two have will last forever, for he will always be in your heart.
I don’t know the next time we’ll see one other, but I will call you as soon as I get back and come see you as soon as I can. In the meantime, know there are so many people that care about you and feel your pain. 

I truly believe goodbyes only exist for people who love with their eyes. There is no end for those who love with their heart and soul. I love you, Helen. Rest in peace uncle Charlie. 

Much love and sorrow,
Jim


We think of you often Helen. We will always cherish our wooden figures Charlie made for us. He was truly an artist. our prayers are with you at this difficult time. Stay well
Joann and jim macchiorola

Rest in peace our dear friend.  You will be missed.  We enjoyed all our times together and you will be remembered always.  Love,  Kathy and Nick 

Helen - John and I would like to extend our sincerest sympathies to you and your family, on learning of Charlie's passing.  I know he will be greatly missed.   He was such a wonderful person and always willing to give.  I will always remember all the plaques he created at the Englewood dog park on San Casa, in honor of all the dogs that had passed away.  He was such a kind hearted man.   May he rest in peace and may you and your family find strength in the days ahead.  

Sending love & peace,
Joanne & John Weaver

Charlie's heart warmed everyone.  I will cherish the little wooden birds he made and painted, a cardinal,  a blue Jay and hummingbird.  Charlie will be missed so much! Xoxoxo. Jack and Tina Kaleugher 

Dick and I were saddened by the news of Charlie’s passing.  He made so many residents smile with is wood characters that he made and painted.  He will be missed. Barbara and Richard Unger

Dear Aunt Helen,  Charlie & Maryanne,  Frankie & Nancy, 

We are so terribly sorry for your loss. Uncle Charlie was one of a kind and we enjoyed your visits to Mom and Dad so much!  We wish you all the comfort that comes from remembering all of the good times and remembering what a wonderful life you had together and what a good man he was. 

Much love, 
Tom and Terry

Dear Helen and Family 
So very sorry to hear of Charlie's passing.
He looked so good when I saw him last walking home from the pool with you and Richie..that memory will stay with me always...you will always be in our thoughts and prayers..
Sincere 🙏 Condolences 
Love Nancy and Frank Psota

Our deepest sympathies to you Helen and your family.  We will always remember Charlie when we see our little girl on the swing.   May Charlie Rest in Peace .  And May your stay strong and healthy
Love ,
Lynn and Joe Montanaro

So sorry for your loss.  He will be remembered throughout our community on each holiday as we display all the lovely wood plaques he made for us.  You are all in our thoughts and prayers.  

OBITUARY

Charles Russo

October 25, 1939 – March 21, 2023

Hodges-Kiser Funeral Home

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