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Russell Salvatore Barone

By T.J. Woodward

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Russell Salvatore Barone, 90, passed away peacefully in Mount Morris, NY on July 15th, 2016 in his daughter’s home surrounded by the love of his family. 

Born July 10th, 1926, Russ was the first of three sons raised by Frank and Rose (Cappadonia) Barone of Stanley Street in Mount Morris.  Upon graduating from Mount Morris High School in 1944, Russ enlisted in the Army and served throughout Europe during WWII.  He received an honorable discharge from the Armed Services on August 19th, 1946. A handsome young man, many girls chased Russ but it was Margaret Miceli who captured his heart.  They were married for 25 years and raised two daughters, Michelle and Rosemary.  Margie passed away in 1974 after battling breast cancer, in the same home where Russ passed years later.  He is also predeceased by two brothers, Joseph and Louis Barone, who like Russ served in the military and enjoyed careers as school principals.

Russell used the G.I. Bill to become the first member of his family to attend college, graduating from Geneseo Teachers College in 1952.  He went on to become the beloved principal of Perry Elementary School from 1970-1985.  During his tenure Mr. Barone enriched the lives of countless students and teachers, and will forever be remembered as a pillar of his community. Russell was married to Julie (Richards) in October 1976.  They were married for 39 years and enjoyed many good times together by traveling, spending time with their families, wintering in Florida, and performing educational puppet shows under the name ‘Arjay Productions’. 

Russ loved sports, playing baseball, basketball, and soccer in his youth.  Later he became an avid walker and golfer.  A member of Silver Lake Golf Course, Russ enjoyed many rounds of golf with friends and family, highlighted by making two ‘holes-in-one’ during a week in 1985.Russell Barone wrote in his journal, “The heart is healthiest when it beats for others”, which he embodied through his devotion to his family.  He wrote letters to us often and signed them “Love, Your Poppy”, as he was affectionately known by his grandchildren.  To everyone lucky enough to share their life with him, Poppy always gave his full attention and made you feel special.  He found the best in others and made people feel like the best version of themselves.  He will forever be remembered as a shining example of what a man should be.  We Love You Poppy, and will live each day to make you proud. 

Russ is survived by his daughters Michelle and Rosemary; his wife Julie; his stepchildren Ron, Larry, and Carol; his 10 grandchildren; Corey, Chelsey, Dylan, Cara, Jessica, Ben, Natalie, Melissa, Michael, and Juliana; and his 8 great-grandchildren. 

Visitation will be held at Eaton-Watson Funeral Home, LLC. 98 N. Main St. in Perry, NY on Thursday, July 21st from 3:00-9:00 pm.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Church, 71 Leicester Street in Perry, NY on Friday July 22nd at 11:00AM.  Russell Barone will be laid to rest in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Mount Morris, NY. 

The family encourages making donations in Russell’s name to Livingston County Hospice at 2 Murray Hill Dr. Mt. Morris, NY 14510 https://donations.hospicecarenetwork.org/tribute/    more information please call (585) 237-2626.  To leave a message of condolence visit\ www.eatonwatsonfuneralhome.comArrangements completed by Eaton-Watson Funeral Home LLC. 98 North Main Street, Perry, NY 14530.

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