Richard H. Russo

Richard H. Russo, 86, of Hot Springs, passed away peacefully with loved ones by his side on Wednesday, November 24, 2021. Affectionally known as Dick or Gramps - he was a first-generation Italian-American born January 15th, 1935 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He was welcomed in Heaven by his wife, Melba Russo, his children Sean Liley and Ronie Renae Fenski, his granddaughter Loni Liley Clemens, his parents Roberto & Antoinette Russo, his siblings Mario Russo, Olivia Cerminara, Gerald Russo, Robert Russo, Carmella Rozell, Alfred Russo, Adeline Keck, and his best friend and little sister, Rita Johnson.

His legacy will live on with the grandaughters he raised and adopted, Katie Russo and Sarah Russo. His memory will be honored by his children Leemen & Frances Liley, Melodee Liley, and Robin & Billy Runyan. His charming spirit will be carried on by his grandchildren Salena, Jessica, Leslie, Jason, Lana, Cole, Justin, and Tricia. His love of fun will be fulfilled by a bounty of great-grandchildren - including two he helped raise, Madison & Mackenzie Suggs. A loving godfather, uncle, cousin, and friend to many, he will be deeply and profoundly missed.

Dick was a natural-born salesman, using his wit and charm to build a successful career selling everything from root beer and potato chips to paper products, souvenirs, and candy. While living in Wisconsin, Dick & Melba owned their own chain of hotel gift shops. After moving to Hot Springs, Dick worked as a salesman for Merritt Wholesale Distributors for nearly 20 years.

Dick brightened every room he ever entered and his charisma and personality would leave everyone he met with a smile on their face and a laugh on their lips. He enjoyed entertaining himself with baseball, cards, and horseshoes. But his greatest joys in life came by selflessly bringing joy to others and he frequently entertained anyone who would listen by playing the accordion and organ while crooning old Italian songs.

The family would like to express their extreme gratitude to Devin, Tamara, Jill, Sara, Nicole, Felicia, Hannah, and all of the staff at Belvedere Nursing Home for their devoted and kind care of Mr. Russo aka Rooster in his final years.

A memorial to celebrate Dick’s life will be held in Hot Springs on his birthday, January 15th, 2022.