Russell La Terra

Russell La Terra was born in The Bronx, Bronx County, New York on November 1st, 1952, to loving parents Catherine Wisniewski La Terra and father, John La Terra. He was proud of his Sicilian and Polish heritage from his parental lineages.

Russell studied in Centre County, Pennsylvania and completed his academic journey by receiving his bachelor’s degree at Penn State. He was a determined man of courage with a Christian faith. He took pride in being a veteran of the United States Air Force and for honoring his country with his brave service. During his dedicated service of ten years, he acquired the title of Staff Sergeant. He was honorably discharged and received decorations, medals and badges such as the AF Longevity Service Award with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, the National Defense Service Medal, the AF Good Conduct Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the AF Outstanding Unit Award, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal during all periods of services.

Russell’s credible skillsets led him to a career as a pipefitter for 27 years where he was nicknamed “Travelling Man” with the Local 669 Union, a national union under the United Association where its lifelong members work on fire sprinkler and suppression systems. During his tenure, he had the privilege to work in Area 51. He also took pride in his position for 17 years as a school bus driver who started with Dysart school district and then drove for Agua Fria school district in the West Valley of Arizona. Russell’s patience with the children of the community was that of a saint.

One of Russell’s special interests was reloading weapons. He learned all the necessary methods in which to handle weapons properly and masterfully from his father John as a young boy. He was a proud lifelong member of the National Rifle Association for his appreciation of firearm safety and The Veterans of Foreign Wars granted for his honorable service and service in war.

Russell and his wife Barbara Jean Baxter-La Terra have a love story of fate and destiny. Russell and Barbara met in the Air Force in 1977 and were together until 1980 when they split due to Barbara going on assignment in Korea. 39 years later, they reconnected while in Arizona where their love flame was anew and shined brightly.

The La Terra’s were wed July 25, 2016, in Surprise, Arizona and lived together in holy matrimony as companions, confidants and partners in love. He spent his time enjoying the simple things of life with his wife he affectionately called his “Mush Mush” and their two dogs, Dino and Tavo.

Russell is described by those that loved him as a pure soul with a heart full of love. Russell was a man who has seen much of the world and loved travelling all over the United States. Russell’s memory lives on in the hearts of all that had the privilege of knowing him.