Casimo Russell Viola

Casimo Russell Viola, age 88, a veteran and longtime resident of Independence, Louisiana passed away on Tuesday, May 7, 2019, with his loving family by his side. Casimo Russell was a very special and proud man who enjoyed the very simple things in life. His love was family and farming. He was proud of all his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren in their accomplishments in life. Farming was his passion. He loved the art of producing an abundance of fruits and vegetables. He enjoyed the simple life of being home in his surroundings and reminiscing about old times. He will be greatly missed. Casimo Russell was born to the late Jim and Jenny Arnone Viola on May 21, 1930, in Independence, Louisiana. He was happily married to the late Jacqueline Merle Jacob Viola on May 3, 1953, for 56 years. He is survived by his children, Marilyn and Vincent Calcagno, Cheryl and Johnnie Santangelo, Jr., Russell and Darlene Viola, and Jerry Viola of Independence, Karen and Scott Forrest of Hammond, and Julia and Glen DePhillips of Albany, Louisiana, his grandchildren, Vanessa and Ronnie Tallo, Christy and Vincent Calcagno, Jr., Julie Ponder, Jennifer and Daryl Ricard, Whitney and Michael Roy, Courtney Viola, Jocelyn Forrest, David Forrest, Jacey and Cody Costa, Jeremy and Erica Viola, Jared Viola, Joshua DePhillips, Kristen DePhillips, and also 13 great grandchildren, and friend Gwen Arceneaux, his brothers, Jimmy and Joseph Viola of Independence, Louisiana, also numerous nieces and nephews who adored him. Casimo Russell was preceded in death by his beloved grandson Johnnie Charles "Lil Man" Santangelo III; his brother, Peter Viola and his sister, Katie Paine. A visitation for Casimo Russell will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2019, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church, in Independence. A Funeral Mass celebrating Casimo Russell's Life will immediately follow visitation at 11:00 a.m. in the church. Interment will follow at Colonial Cemetery in Independence. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home in Hammond. Casimo Russell's guest book can be viewed at www.harrymckneely.com.