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BORN
1997
DIED
2010
Leonardo Russo Obituary
Leonardo Jonathon Russo a.k.a. Ardu or Leo, passed away at the age of 12 at home in San Pedro, CA late Wednesday night. He is survived by his mother, Marcya; his father, Scott; two brothers, Antonino (14) and Vincenzo (8); maternal grandparents, Darryll and Elaine Holguin; paternal grandparents, Anthony and Madeleine "Mandy" Russo; great grandmother, Virginia Perez; Uncle Bug Bug, Uncle D, Aunt Shanna, Auntie Tiffany and cousin, Giovanni, along with a large extended family. Leonardo was an avid Dodger fan and excelled at playing baseball himself. He was a student at Crestwood Elementary and Dodson Middle Schools. He loved to play outside, camp and had enjoyed great friendships. He will be missed by many. In lieu of flowers please make donations in Leo's name to: Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center, Miller Children's Hospital, 2801 Atlantic Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90801. www.jjccc.com. A Vigil Service will be held on Tuesday, September 28, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Wednesday, September 29, 2010, 10:30 a.m. Both services to be held at Mary Star of the Sea Church. Interment will follow at Green Hills Memorial Park. Visitation will be on Tuesday 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at McNerney's Mortuary Chapel. Please sign the guest book at www.dailybreeze.com/obits. You are welcomed to leave the family a message or share memories at mcnerneysmortuary.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Leonardo Russo
Hailee Powell
October 16, 2010
Love you Leo you were and still are like a brother and I love all the fun times we had! I'll never forget you and you'll alway be in my heart!!!!!
jessica
October 13, 2010
I was so sad when I heard of Leo's death. He has touched the hearts of my family and for that I am greatful. He is inspiration for all those suffering from cancer or those of us who's loved ones suffer from cancer. forever in our thoughts, hearts and prayers.
jessica vanderpoorten
October 13, 2010
my sister was a friend of leonardo russo. he has touched my family in many ways and i was so sad when i heard leo passed away. he will forever be in my prayers and always inspiration to me because he never let his cancer get him down. forever in our hearts, thoughts and prayers
October 12, 2010
We are so sad to hear about Leo. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Love, Gina Williams (Di Mercurio) and family
Nikki Crane
October 6, 2010
With sadness and much love our thoughts are with you and all your family.
Nikki, Jamie, Mash and Danny xxx
Yracheta's
October 4, 2010
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2010
Friend San Pedro
October 2, 2010
Grieving is as natural as crying when you are hurt, sleeping when you are tired, eating when you are hungry or sneezing when your nose itches. It is nature's way of healing a broken heart. A cut finger is numb before it bleeds. It bleeds before it hurts. It hurts until it begins to heal. It forms a scab and itches until finally, the scab is gone and a small scar is left where there once was a wound. Grief is the deepest wound you will ever have. Like a cut finger, it goes through stages and leaves a scar. When you try to help someone heal from their pain, Chances are you are probably healing yourself. Listen to the words within your own heart.
RODRIGUEZ FAMILY
October 2, 2010
leonardo u will be well missed well we pray for u will u watch down on us with that sweet yet so young face we will never understand why god wanted u so young but i know he has a pain free place or else he would have not called for u one day we will meet again and u will greet us in to your happy place love u leo.
Lori Hamilton
October 2, 2010
My family mourns with you. Your loss is our loss. We prayed for Leo often. I know that there are no words to console you, nothing that will heal your heart... But it is my hope that you know your beautiful son is healed and no longer suffers. He, like my Devin, touched many in his 12 years. I've found comfort in knowing that while we are each put on this earth for a set amount of time to fulfill our purpose (a purpose chosen by the Lord), our beautiful angels fulfilled their purpose early in life & the Lord has brought them home early, as well. Pray and continue to pray. And, whenever you need someone to pray with you or to just hold your hands, I will always be here for your family. Take comfort in knowing that he is with the Lord and he will be your families' angel, forever with you. I will continue to pray for your family. As soon as I heard, I went straight to Devin & asked her to greet him with open arms. We walk tomorrow for the Light the Night Walk (leukemia & lymphoma society) at Griffith Park. I will be sure to light a candle for the bravest boy I never had the opportunity to meet: Leo! God bless you all, Russo family.
RIP LEO
October 1, 2010
LEONARDO-
I GO TO DODOSON MIDDLE IDK YOU BUT HEARD ABOUT EVERYTHING MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOUR FAMILY GOD BLESS
RIP LEO
Natalie(Accetta) & Tony Felando
September 30, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. I am a distant relative and never knew Leo, but my heart goes out to all of you. Just know he is resting with so many other Russo's that left before him. With our deepest sympathy....
Adam & Julie Pincock & Family
September 30, 2010
Our Hearts and Prayers go out to all your family. We are all soo very sorry for your loss.
Anita & Jim Grace
September 30, 2010
So very Sad to Hear of Your Loss of Such, still a Baby. We never knew Him, but My Step-Daughter, Natalie and Her Husband Tony Viducic did ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rene,Phillip and April Acosta
September 30, 2010
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
true friend
September 29, 2010
ll be missed one day ill be up there playing catch with you and talking about the dodgers you will never ever be forgotten rip i will miss you
Tina & Tyler Alvarez
September 29, 2010
Our sorrow and tears reach out to your family. We will never forget Leo's beautiful smile and laughter. May God keep you in his arms for strength during this difficult time.
Bonnie Grider
September 29, 2010
With deepest sympathy...my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Sincerely, Bonnie Grider
September 29, 2010
Marcya
We are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. May god bless you and keep you in his loving care.
With our deepest sympathy,
Julie,Joe, Rosie, and Annie Ruiz
September 29, 2010
I learned about leo's passing away may god bless and heal the family and friends
September 29, 2010
some peole come into our lives and quickly go. Others stay a while make footprints on hearts and we are never, ever the same. These are footprints Leonardo made, and left for all to remember him by.
I am truly sorry for your loss.
fem
September 29, 2010
Marcya,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry we couldnt be at Leonardo's services but we are thinking of you today. Remember to take care of YOU in the days ahead, we are here to assist you if you need us. Love, The girls at South Shores Chiropractic Center San Pedro, Ca.
Guerrero Family
September 29, 2010
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
September 29, 2010
Our hearts and prayers are with all of Leonardo's family and friends. God will need a good rising fastball as they play on the field of dreams.
With Love and Prayers
Danny,Tami,Samantha,Mitchell
Cynthia Gonzalez
September 28, 2010
I read about your son, and I am very sorry and saddened to hear of your loss. I understand how heartbreaking it is to lose a child, and please know that there is another baby angel boy welcoming your son and holding his hand. My prayers go out to all your family and your handsome son.
Greg Arbues
September 28, 2010
In The Arms of God...We don't like to say good-bye to those whom we love. Separation is tough. It is right for us to weep especially for someone so young but there is no need to despair. We can take comfort in knowing that your loved one is in the warm arms of God. And when Christ comes again, you will hold him again.
Patti Schrader
September 28, 2010
Marcy, Scott. Anthony and Cheny my heart is breaking for you. Your precious Leonardo Will always be with you and we will always remember his beautiful shining spirit. God will give you the strength to carry on as Leonardo would want for you. My love and prayers are with you always.
Fedia Vasquez
September 28, 2010
We - with broken hearts are truly blessed by kowing Leonardo playing ball at Eastview. May the Lord wrap his ever loving arms around you Leo, your loving family and friends. Adios con dios.
Fedia, Mason and Tim F.
Eric Yniguez
September 28, 2010
You will forever be in my heart Leo. Youv'e touched me deeply and you will stay with me FOREVER. Love you. Your cousin Eric.
September 28, 2010
This is your time to live Leo! Live in the heavens, run and play all you want, with your healthy body, rejoicing and laughing, and smiling so handsomely! You have your wings, use them to soar above the heavens all you want. This is your time to live!!
Ray and Bea Ebbert
September 28, 2010
Please accept our deepest sympathy,nothing we can say can ease your hurt at this time.
Ray and Bea Ebbert
Philip Sands
September 28, 2010
When we visited auntie mandy for the first time with our children last year,leonardo and his brothers were so welcoming and friendly. We feel so lucky to have met him. Phil ,Christine ,Isabelle Connie and Gregor Sands.
John Harmon
September 27, 2010
Ardu you touched so many people despite being here for far too short of time, I think we could all take a lesson from you in courage and dignity as I look at your pictures on facebook, I was particularly touched by the fact that you never were not smiling despite what you were facing, now it is time for you to be a little boy again... God Bless you and your family
Aris
September 27, 2010
R.I.P. leo.....gone but not forgotton <3 we'll miss u !
YOU ARE MY HERO AND THE WIND BELOW MY WINGS
Emma Higinbotham
September 27, 2010
I miss you sooo much,
I love you sooo much,
and I can't say how great it was to do fun things with you and just being next to you I felt sooo special.
I will always love and care about you.
You will never be forgotten.
September 22, 2010 at 10:40 PM last breath of the end, first breath of a whole new beginning.
YOU'RE THE BEST THING THAT HAS EVER HAPPENED TO ME!!!!
SEE YOU IN THE FUTURE, when it's my first breath with you. I know you will be a great guide of my new beginning.
I WILL NEVER STOP THINKING ABOUT YOU OR YOUR BEAUTIFUL SMILE!!!!
??I LOVE YOU SOOO MUCH??
??MAY YOU REST IN PEACE??
Debbie and Roy Pari
September 27, 2010
Our hearts go out to you and your family. May God help you,guide you and give you strength thru this difficult time.You all now have a NEW ANGEL looking over all of you!!!!!!!!! Stay Strong he is at peace now.
With our deepest sympathy
Brandon Maes-Allton
September 27, 2010
It was nice playing baseball with u at Eastview you will never be forgotten by ur friends and your Eastview family (REST IN PEACE LEO)
Lauren Antonelos
September 27, 2010
i will miss u very much leo! u were are great friend and an even better baseball player! we will all mis u.. in my heart forever.. R.I.P leo Lauren Antonelos and Antonelos Family <3 <3
September 27, 2010
I'm so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. He is at peace now and another one of our beautiful angels in heaven looking down on all of us. May god help you through this very diffcult time.
Justine Zuvich
September 27, 2010
So sorry to hear of the loss of your little angel. I feel your pain just lost my father suddenely on sept 3. My heart goes out to you and your family I did not know him but my prayers and thoughts go out to you and your family jackie caddeo
September 27, 2010
Im very sorry for your loss, I am 12 and i got to Dodson. Even though i didn't know Leo that well i feel really sad
Louie Canjura
September 27, 2010
You were a good friend Leo. It was fun playing baseball together and going to school together. It was good knowing you. I will miss you!! REST IN PEACE "Leonidus" YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!!
Brandon Maes-Allton and Family
September 27, 2010
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Aunt Zina Marchese
September 27, 2010
Scott, Tony and Mandy and the rest of the Russo Family;
I am sorry for the loss of your child Leonardo. I am glad I had the opportunity to spend his last few days with him having dinner with all of you. I have all of you in my prayers and thoughts and sorry that I can not be there at this time. I really enjoyed the days I was with him, he was such a happy delightful child to be around and he will still be in our heart and prayers and is in a wonderful place with God. My love to all of you at this time.
Glen & Mary Coberley
September 27, 2010
We are very sorry about the loss of your son. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to the family as for losing a child is very hard to accept; only God will find the way to give you peace and strenght and cherish all the happy memories you have. Love to the Russo Family
September 27, 2010
Godspeed, little man... Sweet dreams, little man! The Kordic Family
Jennifer Rugerio
September 27, 2010
To the Russo Family,
We are so sadden with the loss of your sweet boy Leo. Our hearts go out to your family during this very difficult time in your lives. Our thougths and prayers are with you all.
The Rugerio Family
Carmela Accetta
September 27, 2010
I am so sorry for your loss. I feel privileged to have prayed for Leo and his Family through out these past 7 months. I will continue to lift you in prayer each and every day. May GOD continue to hold you in the palm of HIS hand and bring you peace.
Mark & Traci Ponce De Leon
September 27, 2010
Russo Family,
Our deepest sympathy goes out to your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and have been all along. May you find the strength to get through your days.
Sincerely,
Mark & Traci Ponce De Leon
Louie & Anthony Canjura
Manuel Gonzalez
September 27, 2010
Leo
I lost my grandson Christian 6 months ago I have dreamed of him in the lords arms. He was 5 months old. I know you are now with him. Teach him how to play catch Ok. I'm sure there are Dodgers up there that can help. We miss you baby -boys and love you. In heavens minutes we will see you soon.
Rest in Peace
Manuel Gonzalez-ConocoPhillips
Hollye Humphreys
September 27, 2010
Russo family,
Please accept our most sincere condolences on the loss of your child Leonardo. A pain like no other...
You may not remember me, but we met briefly while both of our boy's were at Miller Children's earlier this year. We learned about Leonardo being a patient and being the same age as our dear son Dallas and having the same passion for baseball and the Dodgers. I remember all Leonardo's teammates coming to visit and thinking what a great kid he must be! At the time our son Dallas was receiving chemo after relapsing and preparing for a bone marrow transplat at UCLA. I shared a few words with you Scott and we introduced our boys as Dallas and I were walking our daily laps around the floor.
We too feel the pain that you are suffering from, as our son Dallas passed away just 2 short moths ago on July 14th.
I am sure that Dallas and Leonardo are now playing catch together and talking about the Dodgers up in Heaven.
All our prayers to you and your other children today and always.
Hollye Humphreys and family
Kelly Moser
September 27, 2010
Sorry for your loss. I didnt know leo that long I meet him thought my boss Frank @ Joe & Mikes unfortunly he was already sick but fight a good fight and he's in a better place now.
The Taylors
September 27, 2010
May the lord put Angels all around you as you shine down on your family.
Corie Richards
September 27, 2010
I never knew Leo personally, but I prayed for him often. I was so heart broken to hear about his passing. He is in heaven now and no longer in pain. My deepest sympathies to Leo's friends and family.
Jackie Pilato
September 27, 2010
Deepest sympathies.
Leslie Hernandez
September 26, 2010
We are so very sorry for your loss Russo family. You don't know us, but Leo and my son Christian went to Dodson together. We can't tell you how deeply we feel your loss. Christian is in remission after being diagnosed with leukemia in January of 2008 & under going a bone marrow transplant that same year. My heart aches knowing all that Leo & your family have endured. May God help you ease your pain.
Very Sincerely,
Christian Hernandez & family
Jan ONeill
September 26, 2010
Leo was a wonderful kid. I'll always remember him smiling. I don't ever think I saw him without a smile on his face. He was definitely "all boy" but was kind to other all the other students at Crestwood Elementary. . He would help with the younger children without ever giving it a thought. My heart dropped like a stone when I heard that he was gone. What a wonderful, happy kid!!! My heart and prayers go out to everyone in his beautiful family.
THE YNIGUEZ'S
September 26, 2010
Marcya and Scott we love you and know we'll always be here for you. We will miss our LEO and will always have you and him in our prayers. LOVE YOU NINA IRENE AND UNCLE SAM.
Coach Dan
September 26, 2010
Although I assisted coaching Leo for only his first year in Major Baseball at East View, I not only saw a terrific baseall player but more importantly I watched a great kid play baseball.
All of us will miss him.
My condolence.
Margie Polichenco
September 26, 2010
We send you our condolences at this very diffucult time.We are so sorry for your loss.Carlos and Margie Polichenco
Amber and Noah Taylor
September 26, 2010
"We are truly heartbroken over the loss of Leonardo". Words can't even express the sadness that we are all feeling inside. Please know that " Our Thoughts And Prayers are with your entire family at this time during your unimaginable grief". Leonardo was an amazing young boy always smiling. Noah shared some great times with Leonardo when they were younger. I still remember him having a blast at kids concepts with him. They had a lot of good times at recess and lunch together. Noah truly Adored him. "In our hearts we know that he will always be here with you and beside you". We have all been blessed to have had him in all of our lives. We are so truly sorry . You are all in our hearts. May God give you the strength and guidance during this extremely difficult time.
Rachel Llanos
September 26, 2010
Another angel was called to heaven,
God was knocking at our doors,
How hard it is to let go,
Of what once was given for us we though forever my Lord.
A great smiled was the last we seen,
From his long journey of unwalked streets,
He said good bye with Amazing Grace,
With love and determination to carry on.
It was time for your wings to come out from your soul,
And another angel to come and guide you to heaven were you beling,
You are happy playing without pain and suffering,
And here we are remembering you together forever in the path that you left us,
The one only an angel could change forever even if their gone.
MONICA SALINAS
September 26, 2010
i knew leonardo since kindergarten i just can believe hes gone like that i wish he was still here with us i rember wen we went to catilina and i still have a lot more memories of him he will always have a place in my heart!!<333 REST IN PARADISE LEONARDO U WILL BE MISSED BY MANY ESPICALLY ME!!!!!
jasmin marquez
September 26, 2010
i miss u so much with so many memories we had together r.i.p leo
Shari Bakotich
September 25, 2010
May the support of family and friends and the love of
God bring you and your wonderful loving family comfort
in the days ahead. Love, Shari B
Miller
September 25, 2010
There is no greater loss than that of a child. Please know there are many people in San Pedro praying for you and for your beautiful boy Leo. He is at peace now.
Pam Piccione
September 25, 2010
I live in Sacramento. I did not know your cherished child but my nephew Louie IS his good friend. I am a stranger who mourns your loss, who grieves with you. Please accept my most heartfelt sorrow. God our Father bring you peace in time. God bless your Forever Angel Child.
jenny mcdonald
September 25, 2010
Prayers for the Russo Family. May Peace return to you one day. We are so incredibly sorry for the loss of your sweet boy. We will always remember his amazing smile.
The McDonald Family
Kristen Williams
September 25, 2010
He will always be with you. I am so sorry that you have to go through this. I am praying and thinking about all of you.
Love, Kristen Pesutich Williams
September 25, 2010
To the Family ~ especially Leo's parents and brothers:
Although we didn't know your precious Leo personally, our Grandson did from School and playing at Eastview. No one can know your pain unless one has walked your heartbroken path.
We pray fervently that your memories will sustain you throughout the difficult times ahead.
We hope someday you will find peace knowing you have an "Angel" now playing in 'The Bigs' in heaven, with all the Dodger greats - your Leo's favorites.
With sincere and heartfelt sympathy and prayers,
An Eastview Grandpa & Grandma
Ralphie Ruiz
September 25, 2010
U where. A great friend u will be missed
Natalie Pesutich
September 25, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time, All our love,
The Pesutich Family
September 25, 2010
Scott and family, our prayers and condolences to you at this very sad time in life. God Bless you all.
John Maya and family
Rancho Palos Verdes
Eileen Kramer
September 25, 2010
Rest in Peace Leonardo your up there in heaven now and in a much better place so sorry for your loss<3
Laura Oreskovich
September 25, 2010
My heart broke reading about this young boy. God bless his friends and family. I am so sorry for your loss. He is in heaven now.
Matthew Kramer
September 25, 2010
You were such a GREAT friend i could not be there psyically but i am with you spirituall! I will miss you!!!!
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