PHONE: (908) 852-3361
FAX: (908) 852-4117
905 High Street Hackettstown, NJ 07840

Russo, Michael J. February 23, 1956 - October 7, 2023

Date of Funeral

October 21, 2023

Michael John Russo, aged 67, was born on February 23, 1956, in Lodi, NJ to Christopher and Rose Russo. He passed away at Morristown Medical Center on October 7, 2023 surrounded by his loved ones. Michael was raised in Hackettstown, NJ, graduating from Hackettstown High School and County College of Morris.  Michael subsequently graduated from the Trenton Police Academy and the FBI Academy. He is preceded in death by his parents, Christopher and Rose, by his sister-in-law, Christine, and by his niece, Dana.

He was a police officer most of his life, having served with the New Jersey HumanServices Police, Hampton Police Department, US Department of Defense Police, US Department of Veterans Affairs Police, Smithsonian Institution-Office of Protection Services, and culminated his career as Hunterdon County Undersheriff for Sheriffs James Marino and Deborah Trout. During his tenure as a police officer, Michael was privileged to serve on the security details for Vice President Dan Quayle and MotherTeresa. He was a proud member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 46 in New Jersey.

In addition to being a man of deep faith, Michael devoted much of his time to community service. He was elected to the Town Council in Hackettstown at only 18 years of age, served on the Mansfield Volunteer First Aid and Rescue Squad, Phillipsburg Fire Department, the Phillipsburg Library Commission, Warren County SPCA, and was a proud member of many organizations including, but not limited to, the National Sheriff’s Association, National Association of Chiefs of Police, Fraternal Order of Police-Lodge 46 in New Jersey, the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club Lodge 8, Delaware River Railroad, Colebrookdale Railroad and the NRA. Michael’s interests included animal advocacy, historic trains, classic cars, extensive travel, museums,
amusement parks and all things related to politics.

Michael is survived by his brother, Christopher Russo and nephews Jack (Heather and Adeline) and Greg Russo, his brother, Eugene Russo and his wife Susan, and
niece Alena Russo, all of whom he loved dearly. He is also survived by his daughters, Catina Duszak of Pennsylvania and Tanya Grignon of South Carolina, as well as
several grandchildren, many cousins and other family members, and countless loyal friends.

Arrangements are being handled by Cochran’s Funeral Home with a viewing on Friday, October 20, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the funeral home. A funeral mass will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 21, at St. Luke’s Parish, 265 West Mill Road, Long Valley, NJ. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Michael’s memory to Fraternal Order of Police-Lodge 46 P.O. 346 Rochelle Park, N.J. 07662

Condolences(9)

  1. REPLY
    Ruth Steeg Drummond says
    October 11, 2023 at 6:42 pm

    I am so sorry for your loss. Michael was a long-time friend of mine and will be sorely missed. His tragic death was devastating news. Prayers to you all. 💙🙏

  2. REPLY
    Joy Snyder says
    October 11, 2023 at 8:25 pm

    To the entire Russo Family: Myself and my family are so saddened to learn of the passing of Mike. So many memories of him over the years and his family here in town and our kids all in school together. Mike and my husband, Les. (R.I.P) were always such good friends too and shared the love of police work. My Sincere Condolences to all. Joy (Roorda) Snyder

  3. REPLY
    Sharon and Pat (Schlomer) Housel The Village Florida says
    October 11, 2023 at 9:05 pm

    To all Whose hearts are touched by this tragic death of your loved one. We are so very sorry and saddened to get the news about Mike. A group of us reconnected in Florida, with sharing stories and a meal in August 2023. Our condolences to all

  4. REPLY
    Danny Diaz says
    October 11, 2023 at 11:21 pm

    So sad to here of Michael’s passing. He was a co-worker and valued friend. My prayers go out to his family and friends.

  5. REPLY
    Gary Kuipers, Sr. says
    October 12, 2023 at 11:44 am

    I’m saddened to have learned of Mike’s passing. I knew Mike since the late 1970’s. He was a sincere and public minded servant with good and honest intentions. My heartfelt sympathies to all.

  6. REPLY
    Scott Churchill says
    October 12, 2023 at 2:38 pm

    Mike was my best friend of 50 plus years, and his passing is a loss to all that knew him. His laughter, generosity, and kindness will never be equaled.

  7. REPLY
    Paul & Robin Wallace says
    October 12, 2023 at 8:37 pm

    Gene & Chris
    My Wife Robin and I were so sorry to hear first of the accident Mike was , and of course His Passing.
    His contribution to our Town & area was not unnoticed, and loved following his role as Governor Mike Michaels.
    We understand that our words we bring little relief from the sting of his passing, please know we will be Praying the LORD comfort you all as only HE can.
    In Christ Alone
    Paul & Robin Wallace

  8. REPLY
    Phillip Hanners says
    October 13, 2023 at 2:57 am

    Sorry for loss. Prayers for the family🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

  9. REPLY
    Betti Singh says
    October 13, 2023 at 6:43 pm

    I am so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing and I am praying for you in your loss. I considered him a good friend.

Leave a Condolence

(908) 852-3361

905 High Street
Hackettstown, NJ 07840
FAX: (908) 852-4117

All Rights Reserved