Richard M. “Rich” Russo, 74, of Sebastian, Florida, and Old Saybrook, passed away peacefully on Oct. 1 at Yale New Haven Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born in Waterbury on June 6, 1949, he was the son of the late Nicholas and Marie (Dumont) Russo.

He attended local schools and graduated from Post College and the University of Hartford with a degree in finance. He was employed by Pratt & Whitney, where he enjoyed a successful career spanning 41 years, retiring in 2009. Rich was happily married to his childhood sweetheart Diane (Malagutti) Russo for 53 years. Rich served in the Connecticut National Guard for six years during the Vietnam War. An avid golfer, Rich enjoyed his annual trips to Cape Cod with his Pipe Dream buddies. Rich was a loving husband, father, and friend to all. He enjoyed traveling throughout the U.S. and abroad with Diane and loved his home in Florida, making many new friends and many fond memories.

Rich loved to cook, always trying new recipes and using fresh tomatoes from his garden. Rich loved spending time on the water, enjoyed boating on the Lady Di, teaching his son and nephews how to water ski, and enjoyed fishing with them. He loved attending car shows with his son. Holiday gatherings and family picnics were an annual tradition. He especially enjoyed this summer at his family’s cottage on Chalker Beach. In addition to his wife Diane, he is survived by his son Michael Russo of Old Saybrook (Jeanne Polzella). He is also survived by his three brothers, Robert (Jean) Russo of Waterbury, Brian Russo (Frank Gagliardo) of Waterbury, and Gary Russo of Wolcott; his brother-in-law Roger (Lynda )Malagutti of Prospect; and sister-in-law Barbara (Richard) Elliott of Old Saybrook; cousins, Nancy and Jim Vanoli, Ray Perro and Dave Marino and Karen Ciarleglio; and several nieces and nephews. Richard loved his grandchildren.

A special thank you to Kristy at Vitas Healthcare and nurse Joyce at YNHH for their kindness and compassion during his final days. To all our dear friends and family, a heartfelt thank you for all your prayers, support, and encouragement for Rich during his illness.