Robert Andrew Russi

July 28, 1937 – October 10, 2025

Robert Andrew Russi, affectionately known as “Bob,” passed away peacefully at his home on October 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 88 years old.

Born in San Francisco, California on July 28, 1937, to Jeraldean Russi (Skaggs) and Andrew John Russi, Bob spent his early years exploring the Ingleside Terrace neighborhood with his childhood friends—building forts, climbing hills, fishing at Lake Merced, riding the Muni all over the city, and later joining the Sea Scouts where he learned to sail. His younger brother, John, joined the family five years later.

Bob attended Lincoln High School, where he met his lifelong best friend, Frank Guyer. Just days after graduation, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy on June 27, 1955. He served his country with honor until July 27, 1959, later continuing his commitment in the Navy Reserves, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer.

During his time in the Navy, Bob married Joyce Larsen on August 10, 1958, at Naval Air Station, Barbers Point in Oahu, Hawaii. Together they had three daughters—Janice, Terri, and Sandi. Bob’s family later grew to include his son Tony, and several years afterward, his son Bryon.

A carpenter by trade, Bob advanced through the ranks to become a superintendent with Devcon Construction. Whether on or off the job, he took pride in his work and in mentoring others—including his children and grandchildren—approaching every project with skill and integrity.

Bob was a man of many passions—sailing, fishing, reading, traveling, and gardening among them. He cherished time spent with family and continued working with his carpentry tools throughout his life, even up to his last years and months, making repairs to his deck and crafting gifts such as cutting boards for family and friends.

In 2023, Bob was preceded in death by his wife of 23 years, Lorene Russi. When they married in 1999, he happily welcomed Lorene’s adult daughters, Karin and Kristin, into his family. In 2002, the couple settled in Lincoln, California, where they found a strong sense of belonging through their church and the Lincoln Hills community. Bob found great satisfaction in serving St. James Episcopal Church—particularly through his work on the Vestry and by leading important projects such as the creation of the community garden.

Bob is survived by his brother John; his five children: Janice, Terri, Sandi, Tony, and Bryon; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the work he took pride in, and the community he helped build.

Bob’s Celebration of Life will be held in the spring of 2026; details will be shared at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob Russi’s memory may be made to the Sea Scouts of San Francisco.