Robert “Rocky” Russo

He was born on October 18, 1958, in Bethesda, MD, to Douglas (preceded in death by) and Sandra (Leahy) Russo. He played football and baseball growing up and attended Catoctin High School before going on to Shepherd College. He spent the majority of his career as a project manager for various building design and construction firms. His ideas and achievements can be seen in many buildings throughout the Columbus, Ohio, area.

Rocky was a musician at heart. An avid guitar player, he loved Bob Dylan and attended many of his concerts over the years. In addition to his musical talents, he was a passionate reader and an encyclopedia of random information. On weekends, he rarely missed his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, always cheering them on from the sidelines. Rocky was also fanatical about Kansas basketball and watched every March Madness game with his friends and his son, Matthew. During the holidays, he took charge of the kitchen, his family loved his cooking, and he was always eager to try new recipes.

Rocky was a beacon of encouragement to all. He always wanted to lend a hand to the less fortunate and helped build the food pantry at Vineyard Columbus. He eagerly assisted the homeless in any way he could, whether through donations or by helping people find jobs when they were down on their luck. He consistently gave the shirt off his back to anyone in need and brought out the best in everyone he met. Though soft-spoken, he was intentional with his words and always exuded optimism.

Rocky is survived by his devoted wife of 41 years, Kit Marie Russo. Together, they built a family filled with love and laughter. He was a proud father to Matthew David (Beth) Russo and Stephanie Marie (Jeremy) Frechette. He was cherished as “Papa” to five grandchildren—Levi, Alexander, Lily, Zoey, and Zachary.

He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Andrea Campbell, Pat (Kelly) Russo, and Christopher (Theresa) Russo.

A viewing will be held on Friday, January 9, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at Schoedinger Funeral Home in Dublin. 5980 Perimeter Dr, Dublin, OH 43017

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Blue Beautiful Skies Fund for Lung Cancer research.

A memorial will be held in Maryland at a later date.