Joseph Russo

Joseph Russo, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2024, at the age of 82. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. Born on July 26, 1941, in Chicago, Joseph was the eldest son of John and Antoinette Russo. He is preceded in death by both his parents, and his younger brother Anthony. He grew up in a tight-knit Italian-American family, where he learned the values of hard work, integrity, and loyalty. Joe went on to build a successful career in music in the late 1950s and 1960s. His band, The Millionaires, played on Jim Lounsbury’s Bandstand Matinee, and played with the likes of Frankie Ford and Frankie Avalon. Another one of Joe’s great hobbies lay in being outdoors; Joe was an avid trap shooter and fisherman. Joseph’s greatest joy in life was his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 63 years, Janet, and a loving father to his three children, John (Genea), Jina (Michael), and Joey (Anessa). He cherished every moment spent with his seven grandchildren, Deanna (Chris), Johnny (Beth), Jinele (Brandon), Frankie (Alana), Joey, Isabella, and Talia; and his eight great-grandchildren, Mianna, Jaxson, Blake, Jadyn, Easton, Everly, Livia, and Dominic. His family brought endless laughter and happiness into his life. In addition to his family, Joseph will be dearly missed by his many friends, colleagues, and neighbors, who were inspired by his wisdom and zest for life. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his bold spirit will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched. A wake and funeral service will be held on April 11th and 12th, 2024, respectively, both at Salerno’s Rosedale Chapel in Roselle. Joseph Russo will be remembered as a shining example of strength, love, and generosity. May he rest in peace knowing that his legacy will endure for generations to come.