Russ Mignano

Russ Mignano, age 91, of Monroe, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on July 19, 1934, in Borgetto, Sicily, Italy, Russ was the beloved son of the late Antonino and Antonina (Vitale) Mignano. With courage and determination, he journeyed from his Sicilian roots to build a life grounded in faith, family, and hard work. On December 1, 1956, he married the love of his life, Josephine Rappa, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monroe. They shared nearly 68 devoted years of marriage before her passing on April 14, 2024. Together, they built a beautiful family and a legacy of strength, loyalty, and enduring love.

Russ began his adult working life at Ford Motor Company and with Mignano Construction, embodying the tireless work ethic instilled in him from a young age. He later devoted approximately 30 years to Mignano Stables, where his deep passion for horses became one of the great joys of his life. He treasured the time spent working alongside his brother Sam on his hobby farm-caring for the horses, tending the land, and sharing in the quiet satisfaction that comes from honest, hands-on work. Those days were filled with laughter, stories, and the kind of brotherhood that only comes from shared labor and lifelong friendship. In addition, he co-owned and operated Holiday Ventures Apartments in Monroe alongside his brother, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to his community.

A faithful member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Russ lived his life guided by quiet devotion and deep gratitude. He found great joy in gardening and tending to the land, caring for his beloved lemon and fig trees with patience and pride. Working in the soil connected him to his Sicilian roots and reflected the way he lived his life-steady, nurturing, and faithful. Whether in the barn with his horses or in the garden among his trees, Russ found peace in caring for living things. He cherished time spent with family gathered around the table and showed love not through grand gestures, but through steadfast presence and hard work. He was a man who preferred action over words, and those actions spoke volumes.

As an only daughter, Antonina shared a uniquely close bond with her father. He was her steady anchor and proud supporter, and his legacy lives on in the values he instilled-faith, perseverance, devotion to family, and a deep respect for the land.

Russ is survived by his loving daughter, Antonina (Scott) Goins of Monroe; his two cherished grandsons, Russell and Nicholas Goins; and six siblings, all of Monroe: Salvatore "Sam" Mignano, Giuseppe "Joe" (Linda) Mignano, Anna (Lino) Perna, Giusepina Perna, Maria Liparoto, and Grazia (Salvatore) Vicari. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, Russ was preceded in death by his sister, Benedetta (Frank) Pezzino; sister-in-law, Antonina Mignano; brothers-in-law Joe Perna, Frank Pezzino, and Frank Liparoto; and his niece , Nina (Mignano) Lewis, nephews Tony Mignano, Frank (Tina) Perna.

Russ's life was a testament to the immigrant spirit-rooted in faith, sustained by hard work, and enriched by family. His hands built, tended, and provided. His heart remained steadfast. Though he will be deeply missed, the seeds he planted-in both soil and soul-will continue to bloom for generations to come.

Family and friends may visit from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Feb. 16th at Bacarella Funeral Home where the Rosary will be prayed at 6 p.m. Russ will lie in state at 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Michael Catholic Church. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 11 a.m. by the church pastor, Rev. Fr. Kishore Battu followed by interment at St. Joseph Cemetery.

For anyone wishing to make a donation in memory of Russ, the family suggests supporting the Parkinson's Foundation.

Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page atwww.bacarellafuneralhome.com.