GEORGE RUSSO

George Francis Russo, 83, of Marquette, longtime Negaunee resident, entered eternal life Sunday afternoon, October 5, 2025 at MediLodge of Munising in the care of his loving family and special friends, Nick and Judy Joseph.

George was born January 14, 1942 in Negaunee to Francis and Domenica (Villa) Russo and started working for Russo Bros Inc. at the downtown Negaunee store at the age of eight. He graduated from Negaunee St. Paul High School, Class of 1959. After graduation, George honorably served in the United States Army in Vietnam.

Following service to his country, George continued working at Russo Bros Supermarket, retiring as co-owner and president in 1992 with over 40 years of service.

George was a lifelong member of St. Paul Catholic Church, lifetime member of VA Romo Post #3165 Negaunee VFW, member of the Knights of Columbus and St. Rocco-St. Anthony Society, and was a volunteer firefighter for the Negaunee Fire Department. He served on numerous boards and committees: Michigan Food Dealers Association, Northland Associate Grocers, Miners First National Bank and Trust Company, Wells Fargo Community Action Committee and was a trustee for Peninsula Waters Girl Scout Council.

In his free time, George enjoyed spending time at the camp on Lake George, hunting, fishing and early morning snow removal. More than anything, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother who loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Surviving are his wife of 52 years, Anna Mary (Pitrone) Russo; son, Francis (Allison) Russo of New York; daughter, Domenica (Matt) McKenna of Portland; grandchildren: Rosanna Russo and Elizabeth 'Libby' McKenna; his sister, Rose Marie (Ronald) Maki of Marquette; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church from 10-12:00 noon on Friday, October 10th with a Mass of Christian Burial being celebrated at 12:00 noon with Rev. Larry Van Damme officiating. Inurnment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed in George's memory to Bay Cliff Health Camp or a charity of your choice.

Mr. Russo's memorial page may be viewed at koskeyfuneralhome.com.