"MR SOFTEE ICE CREAM MAN "  

     Guiseppe "Joe" Russo, 78 of Lorain, known in the community for the last 49 years as "Mr. Softee Ice Cream Man" died on Tuesday, October 7, 2008 unexpectedly at the EMH Regional Medical Center in Elyria.

     Mr. Russo was born in Lorain, OH on September 23, 1930, the son of the late Filippo and Maria (nee Barbarino) Russo.  He was a graduate of Lorain High School, Class of 1949-B. For 49 years, he owned and operated the Mister Softee Ice Cream truck in the Lorain community to the delight of generations of children.

     He attended Church of the Nazarene Amherst. He loved the out-of-doors, enjoyed  attending the Ohio State Fair for 49 years, and attending local fairs and festivals. He was especially fond of the time he spent with his grandson. He was also a "tinkerer" enjoyed fixing and repairing things.

     On July 13, 1952 he married Carol A. (nee Zimmerman) Russo, who survives. Also surviving is a son John P (Carol) Russo of Lorain, grandson Jonathan M. Russo, three step grandchildren and 8 great step grandchildren.

     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Alfio Russo.

     Friends may call on Thursday, October 9, 2008 from 2-4 & 7-9,  in the Schwartz, Spence,  Boyer & Cool Home For Funerals, 1124 W. 5th Street, Lorain.

     Funeral Services in the Funeral Home will be Friday, October 10, 2008 at 11:00 AM  with Rev. Richard Henry officiating.

     Burial will be in Ridge Hill Memorial Park Cemetery, Amherst Township.

     The family suggest that memorial contributions may be made to the family through the funeral home.

CONDOLENCES

From:       Lucy
Relation:    Friend

I AM SO SAD OVER THE LOSE OF A MAN LOVED BY MANY KIDS HE WILL BE MISSED, I GREW UP BUYING ICE CREAM FROM MR. SOFTEE, AS ALSO BY KIDS I  ALWAYS CALL JOE,  MR. SOFTEE NO MATTER WHERE I SAW HIM.
 

From:        Kathy Whitmore
Relation:    friend

My heartfelt condolences and thoughts go out to you all.