Michael James Russo

Mike was born on February 8, 1971, in Blue Island, Illinois, to Michael Anthony and Margaret Ann (Hakenjos) Russo. He was a graduate of Cary High School in Cary, North Carolina, and earned both his undergraduate and master’s degrees from Penn State University World Campus.

He is survived by his husband and partner of 30 years, Jason Morton; his mother, Margaret Russo of Morrisville, North Carolina; sisters Tammy (David) Crump of Gulf Breeze, Florida, and Mary (Donald) Elder of Garner, North Carolina; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Michael Anthony Russo, and his niece, MaryAnne (Annie) Elder.

In 1982, Mike relocated with his family from Blue Island to Cary, North Carolina. He played saxophone in the marching band at Cary High School, where he made many lifelong friends.

Mike was a true intellectual—always asking questions, learning new things, embracing technology, and challenging the status quo. Even at an early age, he would consult his encyclopedia whenever he questioned what he was told.

He began his career in the airline industry, which sparked his passion for travel. He enjoyed experiencing new cultures and meeting new people. Beyond work travel throughout the U.S., Asia, and Europe, some of his favorite vacation destinations included Montana, Turks and Caicos, Antigua, and Tahiti.

His career took him from North Carolina to Georgia, Texas, Rhode Island, and Pennsylvania. In each state, he left behind a lasting impression on coworkers and friends that will never be forgotten. Throughout his professional life, he held leadership roles in Information Technology and Human Resources with well-respected companies including LSG Sky Chefs, Eastern Airlines, American Airlines, Bell Helicopter, Textron, and Bayer AG.

Mike cherished tradition. Every Christmas Eve meant fresh rigatoni pasta and the Feast of the Seven Fishes, prepared from his grandparents’ handwritten recipes saved on age old sauce-stained sheets of paper. He followed not only the recipes but also the long and laborious cooking process just as he was taught so many years ago. He loved to share family history, photos, heirlooms such as quilted afghans, and stories of his ancestors immigrating from Europe to the United States.

He was also a devoted dog dad to five Great Danes—Ophelia, Athena, Gus, Andi, and Venus. So dedicated was he to their well-being that every Sunday he cooked 40 pounds of chicken and steamed vegetables to prepare their homemade meals.

Following his recent retirement, Mike returned to playing the saxophone, practiced his German language skills, tended a backyard garden, and gave his time in support of his local community.

Mike was a loving (and tolerant!) husband, and a beloved son, brother, and uncle. The world is a better and smarter place because he was a part of it. “Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in the ballroom at The Club at Nevillewood, 1000 Nevillewood Drive, Presto, Pennsylvania, followed by a catered lunch gathering at Jason’s home.