Ralph J. Russo

On September 11, 2009 we lost a dear grandpa, father, uncle, cousin and friend with the peaceful death of Ralph J. Russo.

Born December 23, 1930 in Ogden, Utah to Vera and Ralph Russo, Ralph spent his childhood working and playing on a Riverdale farm. He graduated from Weber High School in 1949 and later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Santa Barbara, California. Inducted into the United States Army in 1956, Ralph served his nation while stationed at Bremerhaven, Germany. Returning to the Wasatch Front following his honorable discharge in 1959, Ralph applied for a mid-year teaching position, starting a career in education that touched thousands. He served as a beloved teacher, debate coach, assistant principal, principal and associate superintendent at Grandview Elementary, Highland and Mount Fort Junior High Schools and Ogden and Ben Lomond High Schools. He finished his career in the classroom at St Joseph Catholic High school as teacher and principal. In the midst of these labors of love, he also managed to earn a Master''s of Educational Administration from the University of Utah.

With the end of his career in education, Ralph joined the family business at Westland Ford. There he continued to touch people with his selflessness, his humor, and his faith. Ralph''s love of and service to the Catholic Church stood at the center of his life. He served on the financial committee of Saint Joseph Church and worked with and adored the nuns of Saint Benedict''s Monastery. Their monthly brunches together were among his greatest joys. His family, especially his children and grandchildren, were also the greatest source of pride and delight. All those who worked with and knew Ralph will miss his gentleness, generosity and joy. If you measure wealth by the number of people who love you, Ralph is the richest man we ever knew.

Ralph is survived by his two sons and their families, Brian and Christy Mackenzie, Lauryn Mackenzie, Hayden Mackenzie, Anica Mackenzie and Gary and Lee Ann Nicholas, Tyson Nicholas and Nicole Van Nyhuis. He is also survived by three sisters-in-law, very special nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A family rosary will be held Monday September 14th at 5 p.m. at Lindquist''s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. followed by a public viewing from 6 to 8 p.m.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday September 15th at 10 a.m. at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, 514 24th Street.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that you send donations to either: Saint Joseph Church, 2360 Adams Avenue, Ogden, Utah 84401 or The Sisters of Saint Benedict 1075 East 6000 South, Ogden, Utah 84405.

Interment, Aultorest Memorial Park.

Send condolences to the family at: www.lindquistmortuary.com