Russell Raymond DiMarco D.D.S.

Russell Raymond DiMarco,D.D.S. peacefully passed away on November 6, 2015 surrounded by his family. He was born in Harvey, Louisiana on June 10, 1934. Dr. Russell DiMarco has been a leading provider of dental health services in Gretna for over 54 years. Russell was known for his giving heart and his loving hands, and leaves behind generations of loving patients and friends. He graduated from Gretna High School in 1952, where he received the honor of American Legion Award. In, 1956 Russell received his undergraduate Degree in Chemistry and Biology from LSU Baton Rouge, and is a life member of Sigma Chi. He entered the US Army where he was Tank Commander in Fort Polk Louisiana. In 1960 he graduated from Loyola University School of Dentistry. He is a lifetime member of Delta Sigma Delta Dental Fraternity. He was a commissioned 2nd Lieutenant of the US Army 332 General Hospital. He also served as a Captain in the Dental Corp - Martin Army Hospital in Fort Benning Georgia, assigned to 82nd Airborne. After receiving an Honorable Discharge from the Army, he began his general dentistry practice in 1962. He was Director of Sports Dentistry at Tulane University for 23 years, off-campus Dental Clinic, LSU School of Dentistry and since 1963 he was a West Jefferson Hospital staff member. Russell was a past member and Director of the West Bank Rotary Club and was a member of the Italian-American Society of Jefferson. Russell was on referral status at M.D. Anderson Hospital in Houston Texas. Dr. Russell DiMarco was appointed to the Louisiana Board of Dentistry by Governor Edwin Edwards and Buddy Roemer. He served as Secretary -Treasurer for 5 years and past President. During his time on the State Board of Dentistry he was responsible for maintaining integrity and raising the standards in the dental profession. Dr. Russell DiMarco was a member of the American Dental Association, the Louisiana Dental Association, the New Orleans Dental Association, and a past member of the Academy of Sport Dentistry. Dr. Russell DiMarco was a member of the continued studies program of the Crescent City Study Club, the local chapter of the Seattle Study Club. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Laura DiMarco, and his sisters Mamie Jo Chauvin (husband Edgar) and Carmen Chauvin (husband Herman). Dr. Russell DiMarco is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years to Marian Ann Robin DiMarco. Together they enjoyed traveling and spending time at their cattle Ranch in Mississippi where he enjoyed his happiest days hunting and fishing with his family. He considered his most important job as being a father to his two children Alicia Victoria DiMarco who practiced as a hygienist with him for 18 years and Dr. Damon Joel DiMarco who practiced alongside him for 22 years in their Gretna office. He adored his two grandchildren, Kyle Joel and Sophia Olivia DiMarco who affectionately called him "Pappy". He also considered his extended family a Blessing. He will be remembered for his cheerful personality, his whistling, singing and smiling. He always made his friends and patients smile. He had a positive influence on everyone that he knew. Respecting his final wishes, no services will be held and his cremated remains will be scattered at his ranch in Columbia, Mississippi. Those wishing to honor Russell's memory may do so with a Mass. He will be dearly missed. MOTHE FUNERAL HOME handled the arrangements. To view and sign the online guest book, please visit: www.mothefunerals.com.