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Christopher Robert Russo Sr. of Melbourne, FL, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, with family by his side. He was born in Lowell, MA, on July 31, 1936, the son of Christopher Russo and Phyllis Conte.
Chris was married to the love of his life, Elaine, for more than 60 years until her passing in 2023. They resided in Medway, Massachusetts, for over 50 years and enjoyed wintering in Melbourne, Florida. In Medway, he and Elaine were the center of most family gatherings, whether it was the summer family cookout or the annual Christmas party where the toast "Buon Natale" rang throughout the evening. In Melbourne, Chris and Elaine cherished the company of family and friends, hosting many Superbowl parties and making unforgettable memories.
In Medway, Chris’s creativity and entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Russo Insurance Agency, a successful business that he built with dedication and passion. Working alongside Elaine and their son Chris, he took great pride in the agency, which he later endowed to his son, ensuring its continued success and legacy.
His intellectual curiosity was evident in his voracious reading, love of crossword puzzles, and passion for keeping up with current events and sports. In his later years, Chris found joy in his favorite hobbies, including reading, solving brain games, telling jokes, and weekly trips to the Victory Casino boat with friends, where he reveled in the thrill of gambling and camaraderie.
Chris was also an active community member, dedicating his time to various organizations, including the Lions Club of Medway. In his seventies, he joined with teenagers and young adults on mission trips to repair homes and build handicap access ramps for those in need.
Always the life of the party, Chris's jokes—whether appropriate or not—brought joy to everyone around him. He took immense pride in his family’s accomplishments, particularly those of his grandchildren, who adored him deeply.
Chris will be fondly remembered for his generosity, genuine kindness, and sharp wit. Chris’s greatest purpose in life was to provide for his family. Rest in peace, dear Chris. You have more than achieved this goal, and we are forever thankful to you.
Chris is survived by his two sons, Jeffrey L. Russo, who resides with his wife Nahla Azmy and their two children, Trevor and Ranya, in Princeton, NJ, and Christopher R. Russo Jr., who resides with his wife Jacquelyn Russo and their three daughters, Kaitlyn, Kristina, and Kathleen, in Upton, MA. He was predeceased by his wife Elaine and their son, William (Billy) Russo.
Chris also leaves behind a brother, Ernest Russo, who resides with his wife Lillian in Brentwood, NH. He was predeceased by three additional siblings.
Funeral services will take place in Massachusetts in the spring.
Posted originally by Beckman-Williamson Funeral Homes & Crematory
