Alfonso Russo

Alfonso Russo, 85, died peacefully at home on Monday, November 12, 2018. Born in Torchiati, Italy, he moved to the United States in 1980 with his wife and settled in Bound Brook to raise their family. Alfonso was a well respected and established chef, working in many restaurants in central Jersey over his lifetime. In 1996, he proudly opened Girasole with his son, Rob, where he was able to continue to fulfill his life's passion for the past 22 years. In addition to his love for the culinary arts, Alfonso loved spending time tending to his fig and lemon trees and working in his garden. He also thoroughly enjoyed taking care of his many birds. Alfonso's greatest gift was his family and his true love was for his nine beloved grandchildren. Alfonso was predeceased by his sisters, Gerardina and Immacolata. He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Filomena (Caruso); his sons Jack Russo, Robert Russo and his wife, Anna; Aldo Russo and his wife, Paige; his daughter, Marisa Destio and her husband, Paul; his beloved grandchildren Isabella, Liana, Elena, Bobby, Nicholas, Sienna, Sydney, Scarlett, and Christian, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Gathering with the family will be 4:00 to 8:00 PM, Wednesday, November 14, 2018, at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, November 15, 2018, at St. Joseph Church in Bound Brook. Entombment will follow at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Cemetery and Mausoleum in Bridgewater.