Michele Russo- August 7, 1949 - February 16, 2017

My sincere condolences to the Russo family, to Anthony Sr, Nicky, Michael, Anthony Jr, on the passing of their Wife/ mother Michele Russo and to the DeStafano family. Mrs. Russo was a tireless advocate and supporter for the children of Hoboken. Michele sponsored Hoboken Recreation Cheerleaders, Ragamuffin Parade, Summer Olympics, Senior Flower Program, Hoboken's Haunted House, Movies Under the Stars, Concerts in the Park, all with pure heart and soul. She was a relentless volunteer for anyone who needed help, you wanted her on your side. Michele's generosity has been recognized throughout the city, by all the countless people in need. 

IN LOVING MEMORY

MICHELE RUSSO

Michele Russo (née DeStefano), born and raised in Hoboken, NJ died on February 16, 2017 surrounded by Family.

Born on August 7, 1949 to Mary and Pasquale DeStefano, Michele Russo is survived by her husband, former Hoboken Mayor Anthony Russo, son Nicholas (Nick) S. Russo, his wife Olivia and children Jenna Rae, Anthony Evan, Lucien Thomas and Nicolo James; son Hoboken Third Ward Councilman Michael S. Russo, his wife Lisa and children Lia Grace and Jack Anthony; and son Hoboken Police Officer Anthony P. Russo, his wife Aliesette and daughter Ava Liana; her brothers Anthony and George DeStefano, and a number of nieces and nephews.

Renowned as a hard working civic volunteer and community leader, Michele’s dedication to Hoboken flourished in the 1990’s as a founder and Coach of the Hoboken Devils Recreation Cheerleaders, now Hoboken Cheer Dynamics.  Also, with the establishment of the Anthony Russo Civic Association, Michele Russo led the effort to “Turn the Tide”, becoming “First Lady” of Hoboken from July 1993 through June 2001.

Michele’s life and commitment to her beloved City of Hoboken brought decades of service as an elected School Board Trustee, Chairwoman of the Hoboken Democratic Organization, Hoboken Parking Authority Commissioner, Board Member of HOPES and organizer of the annual “Hoboooken Haunted House” and countless other community events.

Michele Russo was a loving mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and wife of 45 years.

Public Visitation - Monday, February 20th - 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Failla Memorial Home, 533 Willow Avenue, Hoboken.

Mass - Tuesday, February 21^st - 10:00 AM at St. Francis Church, 308 Jefferson Street, Hoboken.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to her home parish of St. Francis Church in Hoboken or her founding quest Hoboken Cheer Dynamics. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.