Louis "Bob" Russo, 87, of Middletown, CT, husband of the late Carol Russo (Hill), passed away on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Bob was born in Middletown, the son of the late John Russo and Sebastiana Russo (Gallitto). After leaving Pratt & Whitney, Bob embarked on a fulfilling thirty-six-year career at SNET Phone Company, where he made lasting connections and gained the respect of his colleagues. In retirement, Bob stayed active in his community, taking on a variety of roles and hobbies that brought him joy and fulfillment. These roles included being a devoted member of the Italian American Civic Order (IACO), an attendant at Quarry Ridge Golf Course, a voting aid assistant for the Registrar of Voters, and his cherished role as maintainer at the Cross Street Fire Department, where he was named an honorary member of the fire department in October 2024. Bob's dedication, hard work, and love for helping others were evident in everything he did, and he will be fondly remembered for his service and commitment to those around him.

Bob was a devoted family man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. A favorite daily ritual of his included gathering with friends at the Athenian Diner for morning coffee, where he could be found laughing and sharing stories. His love for crossword puzzles was matched only by his passion for his tomato plant garden, which he tended to with care and pride. Bob insisted that crossword puzzles and olive oil were the secrets to a healthy life.

Bob is survived by his sons, William "Bill" Russo of Middletown, and Robert "Bob" Russo and his wife, Susan Russo (Leyerzapf), of Middletown; daughter-in-law Edna Russo (Giardina); sister, Mary Iacobellis (Russo); sister-in-law, Adele Turro (Hill), and her husband, John Turro, of Middletown; granddaughters, Brittney Russo and her wife, Amanda Russo (Shannon), Jocelyn Russo and her fiancé, Owen Stout, and Jessica Russo-Pugliares and her husband, Stefano Pugliares; great-grandchildren, Liam and Shay Russo; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, Philip Russo, Theodore "Teddy" Russo, Salvatore Russo, and sister, Josephine Kalinowski (Russo). His warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion to family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Calling hours will take place on Monday, December 16, 2024, at Biega's Funeral Home in Middletown, CT, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. On Tuesday, December 17, 2024, a Mass will be held to celebrate Bob's life at St. Francis of Assisi Church at 10:00 AM, followed by a burial at Calvary Cemetery.

Those who wish may send memorial contributions to Middlesex Health Cancer Center or Middlesex Health Hospice Care.