James Russo

RUSSO, JAMES D. James D. Russo, devoted husband, father, and grandfather, died peacefully with his family by his side on September 1, 2011, after a heroic battle with cancer. Jim was the "first baby born" in New Haven, CT on January 1, l944, to the late Dominic and Vincenza Russo. He graduated with a BA from American International College where he was President of the TKE fraternity and he received his MA from Fairfield University. He taught in the New Haven school system and was co-owner of Russo Roofing in Hamden, CT, before moving to Cape Cod in l976 where he and his wife, Ruth, opened and operated Father Christmas for over 25 years. He was the general contractor for Casey Homes in Harwich until he established his own company, Cape Cod Home Builders, which he operated until the time of his passing. Although Jim was a very successful businessman, he felt his greatest accomplishment was the life he built at home. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Ruth, his three daughters Kate (Egan) and her husband, Jim, of Plymouth, Molly (Garcia) and her husband, Mark, of Plymouth, and Sally (Russo) of East Dennis. He also leaves behind his "best little friends," his three grandchildren, Abby, Caroline, and Chloe of Plymouth. Jim is also survived by his two brothers, Fred Russo of Branford, CT and Robert Russo of Hamden, CT. He was predeceased by his sister, Marie Massaro of Hamden, CT. Jim will be deeply missed by his extended family, and all of those who were blessed to know and love him. Calling hours will be Thursday, September 8, 2011 at Doane, Beal, & Ames Funeral Home, Route 134, South Dennis, MA from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M.