NEW PORT RICHEY, FL: Russell J. Amero, 84, formerly of Gloucester, passed away at his home in Florida on July, 3, 2008. He was the husband of the late Vivian C. (Poor) Amero, who died in February of 2003.
Born in Gloucester on May 25, 1924, he was the son of the late Anthony and Eugenie Amero.
Following school, “Red” joined the 8th U.S. Army Air Force in October of 1942. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service with the 351st Bombardment Squadron as Staff Sergeant for action over Ardennes, Central Europe, Normandy and France. His view of World War II was thru the unique and dangerous position of turret gunner of the B-17 and B-52 bombers.
Russell made Vivian his wife on January 18, 1944, and for years they opened their home to foster children while working for the former O’Donnell-Usen and the Rockport Building Center.
He was a life-member of both the Cape Ann Sportsman’s Club and the National Rifle Association, and a charter member of the Amvets Post #32 of Gloucester.
In 1986, they became part of the extended family at Orangewood Lakes Park in Florida. A busy retirement life offered plenty of dancing, entertainment and many new friends.
He is survived by two daughters, Patricia M. Bandelean of Rockport, and Penny M. Amero and family of New York and many nieces and nephews. He was also predeceased by his son, Richard A. Amero, his grandson, Brien Bandelean, and all his siblings, Barbara Muise, Celeste Barrett, Geraldine Sullivan and three brothers, Hammond “Tony” Hughes and William Amero.
His funeral service will be held on Saturday morning in the Pike-Grondin Funeral Home, 61 Middle Street, Gloucester at 10 a.m. Visiting hours will be held on Friday evening from 6 - 8 p.m. Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his memory to the American Cancer Society, 30 Speen St., Framingham, MA 01701. Interment will be held in the Beechbrook Cemetery.