Bernardo Marco Russo

Bernardo "Marco" Russo passed away on December 5, 2024, in Rockford, Illinois, at the age of 60. Born on January 19, 1964, in Wuppertal, Germany, he was the cherished son of Giovanni Russo from Naples, Italy, and the late Ilse Russo of Wuppertal. At the tender age of three, Marco moved to the United States, where he was raised amidst the warmth and camaraderie of Maria's Pizza, the family business. This nurturing environment instilled in him the values of hard work, dedication, and a deep sense of community, which he carried with him throughout his life. Marco devoted his professional life to the noble cause of helping others as an Addiction Counselor. With a Bachelor's Degree in hand, he committed himself to living a clean and sober life, becoming a guiding light for countless individuals on their journey to sobriety. His work was a beacon of hope, reflecting his profound compassion and unwavering dedication to healing and recovery. Marco is survived by his loving father, Giovanni Russo, his daughter Andrea Russo, daughter-in-law Becker Longinotti, and his sons Giovanni Russo Jr. and Amadeus Russo. His fiancé Aby Mueller, and his granddaughter, Xandra Russo, was a source of immense joy and laughter, bringing light into his life. Although he was preceded in death by his mother, Ilse, her memory remained a guiding presence, influencing his actions and decisions throughout his life. A private funeral service will be held to honor Marco's life. A Celebration of Life will be held on January 19th, where friends and loved ones will gather to remember and celebrate the remarkable person he was. Marco's spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, leaving behind a lasting legacy of love, kindness, and compassion. Marco's life was a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of a compassionate heart. His dedication to his work and his family was unwavering, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him. As we remember Marco, we celebrate a life well-lived, marked by love, service, and an enduring commitment to making the world a better place.