Russell Verona

Russell Verona, 79, of Ottawa passed away Thursday, April 2, 2015 at his home. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, April 7, 2015 at 11:30 am at St. Columba Church with Rev. Corey Kreingel officiating. Visitation will be 10:00 to 11:00 am, one hour prior to services, Tuesday at Ottawa Funeral Home. Burial will be in St. Columba Cemetery. Russ was born July 20, 1935 in Ottawa, Illinois to John and Sarah (Zaccaria) Verona. He married Julie Pretto on November 18, 1961 in Joliet, IL at Cathedral of St. Raymond of Nonnatus. Russ retired from LOF after 38 years of service. He was a member of St. Columba Church and past Knight at the Knights of Columbus. He loved to garden, play the accordion, and mostly he loved his family dearly. He is survived by his wife, Julie; one daughter, Claudia (Donald) Thomas; two sons, David (Diane) Verona and Paul (Julie) Verona; two sisters, Sarah Kranz and Theresa Miller; two brothers, Dominic (Bonnie) Verona and John (Pam) Verona; nine grandchildren, Teresa, Josh, Matt, Brandon, Jessica, Lauren, Tyler, Emma, and Gwyneth; one great-grandson, Parker; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Mary Verona. Pallbearers will be his family members. Memorials may be directed to the family.