Obituary of James Russo

James D. Russo 'Jim', 68 of Bath, NY Died Thursday February 5, 2015 at Rochester General Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 1, 1947 in Bath, NY, to the late Anthony and Angela Russo. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Eva Russo and by sons, Anthony (Kim) Russo of Bath, NY, James Jr. (Katharina) of Mountain Lakes, NJ and daughter Tonia (Tim) Smith of Painted Post, NY. He is also survived by five grandchildren, Ashlee Motsay, Gina Coury, Angela, Alexis and Maximilian Russo. He is also survived by great grandchildren Dominic and Giulana Coury. He is preceded in death by brothers Andrew and Anthony Robert Russo and is survived by sister Theresa Puccio and brother Richard Russo and many nieces, nephews and godchildren. Jim was a graduate of Haverling Central School and a veteran of the United States Navy. In his very early years, he worked for his father Anthony at Polly-O Dairy in cheese production and later became the Fleet Manager. In 1980 he created Southern Tier Provisions Inc., an Italian food distribution and transportation business serving his beloved customers throughout the northeast and was President and CEO for 35 years. Additionally, he created J.E.T. Warehouse Rentals, Inc. a commercial real estate provider throughout the state of New York. Jim's passions included finding great joy in spending time with his grandchildren and family, his love of and collection of antique cars and trucks (and constant pursuit of "just one more for the collection") and cruises on his boat "Peddler's Choice" on scenic Keuka Lake. A man of his word, dependable to his family friends and cast of "always room for one more" extended family, and an unparalleled mentor and teacher of values to all he came across. Jim's love of animals was well known, as he served many animals by helping them find a loving home. Throughout his 6 month stay in Rochester General Hospital, Jim's personality gained him many friends and admirers because of his hospitable nature even in when he wasn't feeling well. As his favorite hospital caregiver said "Only a great giver of love can receive love" and receive he did. Calling Hours will be held at Fagan's Funeral Home in Bath, NY from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday February 8th. A mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Campbell, NY at 12 p.m. on Monday February 9th. Donations in lieu of flowers, can be made to the Finger Lakes S.P.C.A. and St. Joseph's Church in Campbell, NY.