Joseph W. Russo, 83

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Joseph W. Russo, 83Shrewsbury – Joseph W. Russo, 83, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2011, with his devoted family by his side, after a brief illness.

Born Feb. 5, 1928 in Worcester, he was one of five children of Mariano and Marietta (Truglio) Russo. He grew up on Franklin Street, graduated from Commerce High School and joined the U.S. Navy to serve his country towards the end of World War II. Upon returning home, he met and married his wife and devoted partner of the past 61 years, Dolores (Capuano) Russo. The U.S. Navy, called him back to active duty to serve during the Korean War. Together, he and Dolores moved to Shrewsbury to raise their family and have lived there for the past 57 years.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dolores (Capuano) Russo; his twin sons, John J. Russo and his wife Kristina of Shrewsbury and James W. Russo and his wife Terri of Northbridge; a daughter, Jennifer Russo and her husband Michael Sereti of Shrewsbury; 10 cherished grandchildren, Angela and her husband Andy, Lynn, Nicole, Elizabeth, Michelle, Joellen, Amiee, Daniel, Joseph and Lisa; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Two brothers, Frank and Michael Russo, and two sisters, Louise Gianfriddo and Marie Prince, all predeceased him.

Mr. Russo worked over 40 years for Wyman-Gordon Company in Worcester in various positions, including millwright and hydraulic engineer before retiring in 1990. At one time, he also worked for Modern Manufacturing Company in Worcester.

He was an active devoted member of the Eastside Post 201 American Legion, lending a hand for every event, parade or function they sponsored. He was also a member and former Shop Steward for the United Steelworkers of American Union Local 109. He loved the Cape Cod beaches, especially Sandwich. He loved to garden, work with wood, and was an avid sports fan. His most enjoyed life's treasure was his wife, children and grandchildren. They gave him the greatest joy and smile whenever they entered a room.

Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Thursday, Dec. 22, from 5 to 8 p.m., in the Mercadnate Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. Members of the Eastside Post 201 will meet at 7 p.m. in the funeral home to conduct their ritual. His funeral will be celebrated Friday, Dec. 23 from the funeral home, with a Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Mary's Church, 640 Main St., Shrewsbury. Burial with military honors will follow in Mountain View Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the University of Massachusetts Medicine Development Office, Cancer Care Fund, P.O. Box 2795, Worcester MA 01613-9938.

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