Joseph (Joe) Russo

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Joe moved to Nassau County in Long Island, NY as a child. After graduating from college, he joined the Nassau County Police Department, where he proudly served for nearly thirty years, initially as police officer and detective in the Fifth Precinct and later as a member of the Special Victims Squad. Joe had no desire to retire, but his health forced him to do so. In his heart, he never left the job. He remained loyal to and supportive of law enforcement and first responders throughout his life. Apart from receiving numerous commendations for the results of his hard work and service to his community, he might also be remembered by fellow officers by his nickname, Mr. Clean, which he earned as result of his penchant for keeping everything neat and tidy, including his patrol car.

Joe had a love of sports and competition, more as a participant than as a spectator. He was an avid softball player in his younger years, when he earned a reputation for hitting homers. He became a dedicated golfer later in life. Joe played weekly during the season, most often at his home course in the Hideout. He played in the Hideout’s golf league for many years with close friend Paul Spiese as his partner, and he always knew exactly where their team ranked before each match. Joe served as the league’s president for a time, and he also organized or attended golf trips with friends, which were a source of great joy and camaraderie for many years. Joe raised his two sons to be athletes too, coaching their little league teams, serving as the “official quarterback” in countless pickup games, introducing them to golf and skiing, and always encouraging sportsmanship and hard work.

Joe also loved cars, and car salesmen loved him. A self-described “car guy,” Joe simply couldn’t resist the allure of a new car and he had many over the years. In addition to his daily driver, Joe always had a second car to tinker with, drive on perfect days, and take to car shows. Those included three classic Corvettes, an El Camino, and a Mercedes convertible.

In 2018, Joe adopted Annie, a Golden Retriever puppy. Annie quickly became a true companion, and they spent countless mornings sharing a donut at a nearby coffee shop and many afternoons at the dog run. Annie was a source of significant comfort for Joe during the last few years.

Joe is survived by his partner Deneen Thompson, his son Andrew Russo, his son Tim Russo, Tim’s wife Anne Lefever, and his beloved granddaughter Juliette. Joe is also survived by his sister Cathy Turndahl, his brother Michael Russo, Michael’s wife Kim, his nieces and nephew, dear friends Bob, Sue, and Michael Koerber, and countless other family members and friends.

We will gather for a celebration of Joe’s life at the Hideout Lodge in Lake Ariel, PA on Sunday, January 19 at 12:00. Lunch will be served. All friends and family are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joe’s name to Concern of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.), which provides support for family members of police officers killed in the line of duty. https://www. concernsofpolicesurvivors.org/