Anthony D. Russo

RUSSO, Anthony D. Anthony D. Russo, beloved husband of Mary Lescoe Russo, resident of Tolland, and Prince Edward Island, Canada, died Thursday (May 6, 2004) at Hartford Hospital, with his wife at his bedside, after courageously battling non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Tony was born in Hartford on May 12, 1931 to Donato and Rosina (Santoli) Russo. He attended St. Thomas Seminary, received an A.B. from Fairfield University, an M.A. from the University of Hartford, and completed postgraduate work at UCLA. During the Korean War, he completed two years of service in the U.S. Army, part of which was spent as Post Information and Education Specialist. His career included positions as a therapist at the Institute of Living, Professor of Psychology. Human Relations, and English at various universities, and Department Head of the Humanities at Capital Community College, where he was Professor Emeritus. Tony was the author of several human relations books in addition to several novels, one currently being developed into a movie. Tony was a true Renaissance man. However, his special interest was thoroughbred horses; he and his wife, Mary, owned and successfully operated Tolland Farms Stable, a thoroughbred horse breeding and racing operation for approximately 40 years. Tony was a member of the New York Breeders Association and raced horses in New York and New England where he had two New England champions, as well as several stakes horses. Tony established scholarships at S.U.N.Y., Cobleskill, NY, for equine students over the past 20 years. In addition to his best friend and loving wife, Mary Tony is survived by his sister and her spouse, Marie and Peter Bonee of Wethersfield, his sisters, Ann Logiudice of South Windsor and Theresa Campeau of Malibu, CA; several nieces, nephews, and many close cousins. He was also a special brother and a wonderful friend to the brothers and sisters of his wife, Mary, and their spouses, in addition to his mother-in-law, Mary Cremin Lescoe. Also, Tony leaves two "adopted sons," Dr. John Lee and Dr. David Lee. Tony touched the hearts of so many individuals; he was highly respected by his peers and students and will always be remembered for being an unusually kind and considerate person to whomever he met. Tony's family wishes to express special thanks to Dr. Hazar Dahhan, Cardiologist, and the Manchester Cardiac Rehab Center. For the excellent care and concern, much appreciation goes to the staff at Hartford Hospital, particularly Dr. Peter Schauer of the Oncology Unit and Dr. David Underhill, Cardiothoracic Surgeon. Memorial donations may be made to charities of choice to honor Tony's memory. At Tony's request, there will be no public services. The Giuliano-Sagarino Funeral Home at BROOKLAWN, Rocky Hill, is assisting with arrangements. For online guest book, please visit online at www.Brooklawnfuneralhome.com.