Robert B. Russo

Robert B. Russo, age 78, passed away peacefully at his home with loved ones by his side on November 5, 2023, after a long courageous battle with cancer. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Bob was born on August 10, 1945, in Chicago, IL. He attended Our Lady of Victory Catholic School, before attending Loyola Academy for High School, and went on to attend Loyola University and graduated in 1971 with a Political Science degree. Bob met Darlene in 1970 and the two were married in 1972. They were blessed with 51 years of marriage, 3 children, and 7 grandchildren. Bob was a dedicated and hard worker, through his younger years he was passionate about running and operating Diversey Cleaners, which was his family’s business, while taking college classes and enlisting in the Army National Guard. After the cleaning business he started in the auto service industry in various roles, ultimately becoming a
salesman for US Autoforce, where he retired in 2013. More than anything, Bob was a devoted husband and father. He loved spending time with his wife and children and enjoyed coaching his kids’ various sports teams. He was a very proud father and was always their biggest fan and would love and support them in any way he could. After retirement, Bob enjoyed spending more time with his hobbies which included golfing, shooting pool, playing cards with his wife and others (Pinochle, Poker, and Gin), being a member of the Chicago Italian American Charitable Organization (CIACO) club, reading, watching sports and movies with his wife, and spending time with his beloved family and grandkids. Bob is survived by his loving wife, Darlene (nee Hartman), his children Deborah (Tony) Sottile, Anthony (Kiki) Russo Sr. and Matthew (Julie) Russo, grandchildren Anthony, Nicholas, Gabriella, Anthony Jr., Emma, Kelsi, and Dominic, and many other nieces, nephews, and relatives. Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Frank Sr. and Rose (nee Surdo), his twin brothers Frank Jr. and James, and other family members and friends.