– of East Amherst, NY passed away on August10, 2026. Known by many as “Russ”, he was the beloved husband of over sixty one years to Josephine (nee Cipolla); cherished father of Robert (Jennifer) Castiglia and Julie Vaccarella; devoted grandfather of Anna Rose and Noah Vaccarella and Parker Castiglia; beloved son of the late Rosario and late Jennie Castiglia; predeceased by his siblings the late Salvatore “Sam” (Eleanor) Castiglia, the late Jean (Alfred) Desiderio and the late Frank (Roberta) Castiglia; dear brother in law of the late Salvatore (Joan) and Anthony (Patty) Cipolla; beloved friend of Christopher Phillips, and member of People of Praise (Buffalo) for over forty years. The family will be present on Friday August 14, 2026 from 4 – 8 PM at the DENGLER, ROBERTS, PERNA FUNERAL HOME, 8630 Transit Rd. East Amherst, NY where an honoring of Russ’ life of faith and service will be held at 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary Church Swormville, NY on Saturday August 15, 2026 at 11:30 AM. Please assemble at the Church. Military honors and burial will immediately follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery Cheektowaga, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rosario’s memory to People of Praise, Buffalo Camp, 5225 Harris Hill Rd. Williamsville NY 14221. Please share condolences and fond memories at www.denglerrobertspernaeastamherst.com
