Obituary of Joseph Frank Russo

Joseph Frank Russo was born in Detroit, August 19, 1951. He was one of six children born from the union of the late James Russo and the late Lena (Giamanco) Russo. Joseph was a 1969 graduate of Monroe High School and supported his family as a Department/Shipping Clerk at Ford Motor Company for thirty-three years, retiring in November 2005. Joseph was proud of his Italian heritage and all that it offered from Italian cuisines to its deep rooted culture and traditions. He was a wonderful cook and cherished time spent with his sister canning tomatoes. Joseph had an eclectic passion for music. He played bass guitar and sang in a classic rock band. Others were drawn to his beautiful soul and selfless spirit. He would often lend a helping hand or give words of advice for others in need. In his younger years, Joseph appreciated the outdoors hunting and taking his family camping. He gained an appreciation for Colorado during a “trip of a lifetime” and always had something interesting to say about it. Joseph Frank Russo, age 65, of Monroe, passed away at 2:03am on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at home. In addition to his parents, his passing was preceded by his infant sister, Rachelle Russo. To cherish his memory he leaves his three children: Rachael (Chris) Briggs of Monroe, Crista Russo of Ashburn, Virginia, and Joseph G. Russo of Marina Del Rey, California; six siblings: Tony (Alena) Russo of Erie, Jimmy (Valerie) Russo of Temperance, Michelle (Chris) Shanafelt of Monroe, Mary (Steve) Zawodny of Erie, Frieda Kreger of Erie and Jean Ann Russo of Monroe; four grandchildren: Alexander Russo, Christopher Briggs, Paris Briggs and Jason Foshag; and his canine companion, Chloe. Friends may gather from 10:00am until a Celebration of His Life at 12:00pm on Saturday, March 18, 2017 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe (734)384-5185 with Pastor Mike Gilbert of Brookstone Christian Academy officiating. Memorials are suggested to the family. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.