Russel Anthony Gelso, 100.6 years, a lifelong resident of Monroe, Michigan, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Alice Lorraine Care Center in Monroe.
Born August 31, 1925, in Monroe, Russ was the son of the late Anthony and Catherine (Terrasi) Gelso. Russ was baptized, confirmed and attended elementary school at St. Joseph Catholic Parish in Monroe. He was a 1943 graduate of Monroe High School.
Russ served his country honorably and proudly in the United States Navy during WWII. He was awarded the WWII Victory Medal and the African Middle East Area Ribbon.
On May 26, 1951, Russ married the love of his life, the former Jean A. Mann, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monroe. Sadly, Jean preceded him in death on June 7, 2007, after 56years of marriage.
Russ was employed as a stationary engineer for Consumers Power in Monroe for 30 years. He retired in 1985.
Russ was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Monroe where he sang in the choir. His other memberships included the Knights of Columbus and the VFW Post 3925 in Erie and the Italian American Club in Monroe. Russ had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother and enjoyed the Rosary. He was instrumental in organizing the Marian Procession at St. Mary Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing Bocci and putzing around his and his children's homes fixing things. Russ, although small in stature, had a giant personality and loved time spent with family.
Russ is survived by five loving children: Pat (Linda) Gelso of Brandon, FL, Vickie Gelso of Monroe, Theresa Gelso of Monroe, Gina (Doug) McKeone of Ida, and Russ Gelso of Monroe., eight cherished grandchildren, 13 treasured great grandchildren, and three siblings: Nancy Savage, Ann Poupard, and Jean (Pete) Peterson all of Monroe.
In addition to his parents and spouse, Russ was preceded in death by a son, Thomas, a daughter, Veronica "Ronnie" a brother, Michael, and five sisters: Mary Beaudry, Rose Johnson, Josie Gelso, Angie Gelso, and Grace Drewior.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, from 2:00 to 8:00 pm, Rosary 6:00 pm, at Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., Monroe, Michigan, 48161. On Thursday, March 5, 2026, he will lie instate at St. Mary Catholic Church from 10:00 am, where Mass of the Resurrection, celebrating Russ's life will begin at 11:00 am. Fr. David Burgard, pastor, will be the celebrant. Entombment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Monroe where the VFW Post 1138 will conduct military honors.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Heartbeat of Monroe.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .