Bruno Michael Russo, Sr.

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Bruno Michael John Russo, Sr. early on the morning of February 21, 2025, after an extended hospital stay.

If you knew Bruno Russo, you knew he was a loving husband; an awesome father; great brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, neighbor, and friend.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ernest and Katherine (Falvo) Russo; brothers, Joseph Russo and Hon. James E Russo; infant son Michael John; and sister-in-law Eleanor (Don) Kelly; as well as many other beloved friends and family.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Patricia (Zajac) Russo and his adoring children Michelle Catherine Russo (Patrick Murphy) and Bruno Michael Russo Jr.; Brothers, Louis Russo, William (Mary Kay) Russo, Anthony (Vicki) Russo, Ernie (Nancy) Russo, as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews that he loved very much.

Bruno grew up and lived in the Sewickley (Quaker Valley) area most of his life, except when he attended Morehead State University where he played college football. If you knew him, you would know that he was hard working. If you are old enough, you may have heard the stories that all the brothers delivered newspapers and worked on many of the large Sewickley Height estates growing up. He worked 20 years as a millwright for Wyckoff Steel. He worked many side jobs, because one job was never enough and finished his career and retired from the Sewickley Water Authority as the main plant operator.

Although, he was always working, it was not all about work. He also was very proud of his extra circular activities within the Quaker Valley School District community. He was a long standing (lifetime member) of the Aleppo Township Volunteer Fire Department.

He was a trustee for Wyse Federal Credit Union and was involved in running the credit union for much of his life.

He was involved and sat on the zoning board of Aleppo Township as well as helping the Aleppo Township Water Authority by performing required water sampling for state compliance.

He loved his sports, Penn State Football, Pirates, Penguins, and of course the Steelers. But more so it is important to acknowledge his impactful on local youth sports. He was asked by one of the neighbors to help initiate the local youth soccer program, which grew to be a very popular youth activity for the region. He was very involved with the Quaker Valley little league and softball leagues. He coached his children and continued to be a pillar in the organization for around 30 years. He was proud to have won a few championships as well as coaching travel tournament teams.

He also enjoyed recreation, like hunting at deer camp, where he was the camp chef. No one went hungry at our deer camp. He enjoyed fishing, something that originated with his brothers living near the Ohio River and evolved to fishing at Pymatuning Lake, where he had a camp and boat for several years. He enjoyed boating, especially when he could host his family members who also have a great presence at Pymatuning Lake.

After retirement, he bought a condo in Cape Coral, Florida where he spent the winter months. The neighbors of the condominium community quickly became his second family. They enjoyed many activities, including days in the sun by the pool, golfing, and evenings at the “pit”.

No matter the location he loved his food, mostly homemade, homegrown cuisine made from traditional family recipes that he loved to prepare and share with his family and friends.

He was a passionate gardener growing heirloom tomatoes and other vegetables. He enjoyed harvesting fruit from his apple, peach, and pear trees.

Even though he was a very strong man, he fought with many health issues over the last few years to be there for his family. It is hard to say goodbye as we won’t be able to hear his advice or laugh with him. However, he was ready and it was his time. He is now at peace.

Viewing will be on Sunday March 2, 2025, between the hours of 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Copeland Funeral Home in Sewickley, PA. A mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday, March 3, 2025, at Divine Redeemer Church (formerly St. James Catholic Parish) at 10:30 am. Everyone please meet at the church.

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