He was born in Saint Louis, MO on August 10, 1949, to Joe and Alberta LoRusso. He grew up on The Hill, and celebrated his Italian heritage with his community. Joe had a deep appreciation for good food, a full house, and music that touched the soul. He loved his family and friends, and was a master storyteller of historical battles and Biblical events. He was proud that he passed his gifts along to his sons, to be shared for generations to come.
Joe is the loving father of Micah (Irene) LoRusso, Josiah (Chynna) LoRusso, and Jason LoRusso; proud Nonno (grandfather) of granddaughters Natsumi LoRusso and Harper LoRusso, and soon-to-be first born grandson Landon LoRusso.
Joe served his country during the Vietnam War with the United States Marine Corps. He faithfully served God and dedicated his life as a Pastor at Hill Fellowship/Hill of Zion, Rivers of Life, and Southgate Church for more than 40 years. He has ministered, prayed and brought countless couples, families and communities together; his spiritual legacy has had international impact, as his heart for sharing the Gospel of Jesus was constant. He loved officiating over wedding ceremonies, and many couples were blessed by his humor, candor, and respect for the blessing and commitment of marriage. After moving back to The Hill, Joe launched The Hill Bible Study on Monday nights at his home and his family will proudly continue to sponsor the annual Turkey Bowl at Berra Park.
Joe loved sports, especially soccer, and was formative in working with CYC as a coach, referee, and volunteer. He passed his passion for soccer along to every generation to walk through the doors of the churches he served in, and fostered community among denominations both on-and-off of the field.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents Joe and Alberta LoRusso; by his nephew Vinny LoRusso; and by his sister Barbara (Bobbi) LoRusso.
Joe is the cherished older brother of Vince (Nancy) LoRusso, Tom LoRusso, and Rich (Terri) LoRusso; brother in-law of Susie (Joe) Panke, Mike (Mary) Curran, Sandi (Tony) Kloepfer, Jeff (Gen) Curran, and Crissy (Dave) Holmes; and is a beloved uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and pastor to many.
The celebration of his life and legacy will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 6, 2019 at Southgate Church, 9820 E. Watson Rd. St. Louis, MO 63126. It will be followed by the Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday, March 5, 2019 at Southgate Church from 5-8:30pm and Wednesday, March 6, 2019 from 9-10am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Southgate Church, for the benefit of Christ for India. Led by Abraham of India, this ministry was one of Joe’s dearest campaigns to reach people with the Gospel. www.christforindia.in
