Joseph Russo February 19, 1940 - February 14, 2022

Miami, Florida - Joseph Ronald Russo, 81, passed away on February 14 at home surrounded by his adoring family. He succumbed to cancer less than a year after his diagnosis. His passing on Valentine’s Day was a fitting end to a life filled with love for his family.

Joseph was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey in 1940 to Joseph and Ethel Russo. He graduated from Atlantic City High School and soon moved to Manhattan and later to Miami with his wife, Carole. He made a successful career for himself in the hospitality industry managing some of the most iconic nightclubs and restaurants of his era, including the Gaslight Club, Cricket Club, The Mutiny, The Biltmore Hotel, and Fisher Island. An avid lover of gardening and animals, Joseph began working as a volunteer at Zoo Miami after retirement. He was soon asked to join their staff and remained there until the Zoo was closed due to the pandemic.

Joseph was regarded by friends and family as handsome, dapper, kind, clever, and witty. Above all, he was a family man, an extraordinarily devoted grandfather, father, and husband. He was the family advisor, protector, and supporter of almost any endeavor. He was the backstop and the first call if help or encouragement was needed. Joseph was always a willing and able caregiver for his grandchildren, teaching them to swim, to ride a bike or to have a VIP experience at the zoo. He was ever present at their soccer matches, dance recitals and school functions. He lived for his grandchildren who referred to him as “Far Far,” grandfather in Swedish.

Joseph is survived by his wife of 55 years, Carole Cortland Russo, sons David and Kevin Russo, daughter-inlaw Isabel Russo, and daughter Ginny Faden, as well as grandchildren Morgan Russo, Maxwell Russo, Olivia Russo, Corey Larrea and Casey Faden.

Joseph was predeceased by sister Anne and survived by his sister Linda and brothers Albert and Thomas.