Anita Brooks Russo

27 February 1922 - 1 June 2015

A wonderful wife, mother and all-round gentle person has left us. Born in Montreal to a sergeant-detective father (John Brooks) and a hardworking mother (Leontine DesSerres), Anita described herself as the most timid of their eight children but her love for her family was fierce. In 1950, she married Joseph Russo and they had three children who, along with their families, survive her: Tony (Anita) (Krista, Eric, Carolyne), Marlene (Caitlin) and Christina (Michael) (Jane, Helen). Despite having Alzheimer's, she was able to dance at Krista's wedding to Scott and was able to hold her first great-grandchild, Celeste, in her arms.

Anita and Joe were one of those rare and remarkable couples with similar values who shared a love of laughter, music and family. Anita's early interest in cooking foods that Joe liked turned her into a fantastic cook. It was a hobby that gave her great joy, in part because of the happiness that it brought to others.

Anita loved fashion (a true Montreal girl) and always encouraged the young people in her life to become the best they could be. People would regularly tell her children how lucky they were to have such a nice mother.

A love of life and of family, combined with a strong faith, defined Anita. What a truly wonderful legacy to leave for those who remain behind.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice and honour Anita by talking to the stranger standing next to you in a line-up.

Family and friends are invited to Racine, Robert & Gauthier Funeral Home 180 Montreal Rd, Ottawa (613-241-3680) on Saturday June 6th, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday June 6th at Divine Infant Church (6658 Bilberry Dr, Orleans) at 1 p.m.