MIDDLEBURY — Russell J. Deluca, 90, of Middlebury, husband of the late Ann F. DeLuca, passed away on July 27, 2024, after a brief illness.
He was born in Ellenville, N.Y., to Joseph and Concetta (Mollica) DeLuca. Russ was a graduate of Watertown High School and the University of Connecticut. He went on to work at the Bristol Co. and Southern New England Telephone Co. He retired in 1990 and went on to work for The Westover School.
He spent his life giving back to his community through Safe Haven, Waterbury Hospital, and various charities and organizations.
In his free time, Russ was an avid world traveler with his wife, and he captured these moments through incredible photography. Russ enjoyed all kinds of music, even playing his trumpet at family Christmas gatherings and with his brother, Frank, in a band in the 1950s.
A true family man, Russ cherished his time with his brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and family friends.
Russ leaves behind his daughter, Susan Stramiello and her husband Stephen; sister, Carmela Desjardins; daughter-in-law, Stephanie DeLuca; and his granddaughters, Natalie DeLuca, and Kaitlyn Voity.
Besides his parents and wife, he was predeceased by his cherished son, David; brother, Frank DeLuca; and sisters, Lucy Cremins and Marion Mauriello.
The family would like to thank hospice and Waterbury Hospital. We are truly grateful for his friendship with Iana, Jessica and Maryanne.
Funeral services and committal were to be at the convenience of the family and there are no calling hours. The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Naugatuck is assisting with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Safe Haven, 29 Central Ave., Waterbury, CT 06702; or to a local food bank.
For online condolences, to share a photo or a story, please visit fordfh.com.
