Russell F. Casalinuova

**At the family's request, Russell would've wanted everyone to wear Boston Sports attire to his services. Red Sox, Patriots, Bruins...all are welcomed and encouraged.**

Russell F. Casalinuova, age 71, resident of Athol, MA, passed away on August 28, 2023.

Russell was raised in Boston and Maynard. He was retired from the USPS. Russell was loved and cherished by his family and friends. He was LEGEND in AA where he gained an extended family. He was very proud of his sobriety and becoming a mentor for those in recovery. Russell had 13 years sober and considered himself a "Blessed alcoholic".

Russell was a DIE HARD Boston sports fan! He could often be heard from his bedroom yelling passionate obscenities at whatever game he was watching, while his kids and grand kids laughed at him from the other room.

Russell enjoyed spending time with his family and friends and loved making people happy and seeing them laugh as he attempted to do so with his goofy sense of humor. Going to AA meetings and traveling on commitments was a huge part of his life. He was a very loving caring man and would literally jump to help anyone in need of anything. In his spare time since being retired he enjoyed "junking". He spent a lot of time in his yard taking his scrap metal apart which gave him some peace.

Russell also coached softball for many years, collecting many daughters. When the girls would walk off the field he would say "Good job boys!"  Just a little humor he would always try to add.

Russell was an amazing man and will forever be loved and truly missed. He has touched the lives of so many people who are going to dearly miss him.

Russell is predeceased by his loving wife of 30 years Cheryl (Coggins) Casalinuova, his parents Pasquale Casalinuova, step-father Carson Applebee and Ann (Mealey) Applebee, his sisters Patricia Difrancisco, Maryann Casalinuova, Toni-Lee Stone, and his grandson Michael Madore lll. He is survived by his two daughters Lisa Madore Colandrea and Stacey Casalinuova (Michelle), his two sons Michael Madore Jr. and Russell Casalinuova Jr., his brothers Lawrence Casalinuova and Thomas Casalinuova, his sisters Carol Loring, Theresa Babbin. Russell is also survived by his grandchildren Kyle, Zachary, Ashley, Chelsea, Kalie, Lola, Sunshine, Sadie, Damien, Jayce and Maya, along with his great grandchildren Zachary Jr., Avalynn, Jaslynn, Inara, Maeve, Oakley and Mason

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Russell for a period of visitation on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Rd. Fitchburg, MA 01420 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm.

Arrangements are being handled by Brandon Funeral Home. In memory of Russell, we encourage you to share your cherished memories, stories, and photos on his memorial page. This will serve as a comforting reminder of the joy and laughter that Russell brought into our lives, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind, please visit www.brandonfuneral.com.

Kevin J. Mack, Walter C. Taylor, Melissa A. McQuaid funeral directors.