 JAMES FRANCIS RUSSIJune 01, 1938-June 02, 2014 James F. Russi passed away on June 2, 2014 at the age of 76. Beloved husband of Arleen Russi of Alameda. Loving father of Jack (Jodie), Tim (Alicia), Joe (Lynn), Cathy Thomas, Patrick (Kelly) and Shelley (Rahn Twitchell) . Adored Papa of 18 grandchildren. James (Jim) was born in San Francisco on June 1, 1938 to Francis John and Catherine (Carroll) Russi. He was an older brother to Fr. John Joseph Russi and Carroll McDaniel both deceased and an Uncle to Carroll's two children Kitty and Patty. He graduated from St Cecilia Grammar School , St. Ignatius College Preparatory in San Francisco, and Santa Clara University where he was a Rhodes Scholar. He was also an All American Basketball player and in the Hall of Fame at Santa Clara University. The pinnacle of his sports career was to be a first round draft pick for the St Louis Hawks in 1960. Jim was a CPA and a long-time partner in Yandell Truckaway and Santa Clara Warehouses. Jim coached CYO basketball from 18 years of age and was Athletic Director for over 25 years at St Joseph's Grammar School in Alameda. For many years Jim and Arleen ran the CYO East Bay Parochial League for the Oakland Diocese and their impact on youth and sports in the Bay Area has been substantial . He was a legend in adult basketball leagues in the area and frequently sought after pick-up basketball player at Franklin and Washington Parks.
Jim lived his life with a few simple principles. God and family were always first and if you were going to do something then try to be the best. He has been a significant and positive influence for so many, and truly has left the world a better place. He will be dearly missed.
Family and friends are invited to attend Vigil Services at 7 PM Thursday June 5, 2014 and the Mass of Christian Burial at 12 noon Friday June 6, 2014 at St Albert the Great Catholic Church, Mcartney and Holly Streets, Bay Farm Island, Alameda. A reception will follow the Mass. Interment Saturday, 10AM Holy Cross Cemetery, Colma. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to in the name of Jim and Arleen Russi. God Bless and thank you to all for the prayers For further information please call: Harry W. Greer, Funeral Director (CA Lic. FDR-745).
ALAMEDA FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES
510-522-6020 ALAMEDA CA FD2139
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Published in San Francisco Chronicle on June 5, 2014
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