Russell Joseph Birtola, 86, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Thursday, February 7, 2019, in San Jose, California. He was born April 10, 1932, to James and Ann Birtola in Chicago, Illinois. He met the love of his life, Katherine Lonero, in Monterey, California, and were married on June 12, 1955. The two settled in San Jose, California, where they raised their family of four.
Russell is survived by his wife of 63 years, Katherine Birtola; son Jim Birtola and wife Lori Birtola; son Sal Birtola and fiancé Cheryl Hassett; daughter Anna Marshall and husband Kevin Marshall; son Russell Birtola and wife April Birtola; nine grandchildren, Jeremy, Justin, Jacob, Samantha, Nicholas, Jessica, Catherine, Stephen and Tyler; a great-grandchild, McKenzie; and brother Damen Birtola and wife Lucille Birtola.
He was a member of the Elks Lodge and Sons of Sicily, and enjoyed many hobbies including traveling, golf, and enjoying a good martini with his friends and family. He also took pride in his service during the Korean conflict, serving the rank of Sergeant in the Army/Air Force.
We were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from him during his 86 years, among them was to “stay positive and try to find the good in any situation,” “always try something once,” and “always find time to laugh, love and be there for your family and friends.” He was one of the kindest, most approachable people you could ever meet, and he would open his heart and home to anyone. In our hearts, your memory lingers sweetly, tender, fond and true.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 16, at 11 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Church (20101 McKean Road, San Jose, CA 95120) with Father Larry Hendel officiating. Burial will be in Oak Hill Cemetery (300 Curtner Ave, San Jose, CA 95125). Pallbearers will be Jim Birtola, Sal Birtola, Russell Birtola, Kevin Marshall, James Birtola, Jeremy Birtola, Nicholas Marshall and Jacob Birtola.
Instead of sending flowers to the church or cemetery, the family requests that you donate to a charity in Russell’s name. Charities may include the American Heart Association, Shriners Hospitals for Children, or the Organization for Autism Research.
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