Colonna (Orso) Russo's Obituary
Colonna (Orso) Russo, 83, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 18. She struggled for many years battling a variety of illnesses. Colonna is now at rest with her beloved husband, Joey. He was her soul mate and best friend through 60 years of marriage. Joey passed away in January 2012. Colonna tried her best to remain here for her family, but her heart was truly broken. She was a courageous woman of strong will and determination.
Born June 30, 1931, Colonna was a lifelong resident of the Syracuse area. Devoted daughter of the late Anthony and Josephine Orso, she grew up on the "Northside". Colonna graduated from North High School. She married Joseph Russo in 1951. Husband and wife worked side by side in the Produce Business for most of their married life. In later years, in sickness, their devotion to one another never wavered.
Colonna was active in her community, serving as President and officer in the Daughters of Columbus. She was also a life member of the St. Camillus Auxiliary. Colonna enjoyed being around people. She was a take charge kind of person and liked being involved in any projects- large or small.
One of her favorite things to do was getting together with the "ladies" to play cards.
Colonna was a wonderful baker. She welcomed family and friends into her home for a visit and delicious desserts. Colonna also loved to sew and was a very talented quilter. She leaves her family with many beautiful quilts that were made and given "with love".
Last, but not least, Colonna was devoted to her family. Being a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother was a commitment that she took seriously and held close to her heart. She could not rest at night unless she knew that all of her family was safe for another day. Colonna's admirable legacy as a woman of strength and courage will live on forever in all the hearts of her family and friends.
Time to be at rest, in peace…
Colonna was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Russo in 2012 and parents, Anthony and Josephine Orso in 1989.
Surviving are her daughters, Mary Jo (Don) Cook of Liverpool, NY and Jo Anne (Michael) Parent of Hilton Head, SC; grandchildren, Erin (Jason) Lachut of North Syracuse, NY and Todd (Kara) Cook of Clay, NY; great-grandchildren, Maxwell and Josephine Lachut and Landon and Parker Cook; sister, Marie (Frank) Scicchitano of Erie, PA, along with several nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, December 22, 2014 at 11:00 am in Our Lady of Pompei/St. Peter Church. Burial will be private. Family and friends may call from 8:30 to 10:00 am on Monday, December 22, 2014 at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
The family is grateful for all the kindness and professional care shown to Colonna and the entire family throughout the years. We especially acknowledge Nicole for her years of loyalty and devotion to Colonna and Joe.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Golisano Children's Hospital or SPCA of Central New York.
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