August “Augie” Russo passed away peacefully at his home in Hermiston on Oct. 27, 2025 at the age of 88.
He was born on Aug. 23, 1937 in Jersey City, N.J. to Mae and Frank Russo.
Augie relocated his family from New Jersey to Southern California, where he pursued many investment ventures with family and friends. He held a California real estate license, contractor’s license and pilot’s license. Augie worked for many builders as a contractor superintendent for many years.
August remarried in April 2014 and he and his wife, Darlene moved from Escondido, Calif. to Hermiston in 2017 to be near family and friends.
Being an avid skier, he flew many flights to Mammoth Ski Resort as well as many other flights to other fun vacation destinations in his private plane with family and friends.
Augie is best remembered by all for his generous spirit, tireless pursuit of a good deal, produce deliveries of potatoes and onions and his “Coupon Sharp Shooting” talent.
At the young age of 11 or 12, August was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. He remained loyal to his faith and was a faithful member of the Hermiston congregation.
He is survived by his wife, Darlene; daughters, Debra (Scott) Smith and Dana DeMosi, Tennessee; step daughters, Kelly (Victor) Founts, Hermiston and Michele (Mike) LaBranch, Carson City, Nev.; stepson, Robert Kinkel, Germany; nine grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Augie was preceded in death by his parents; beloved son, Wayne Russo; and sister, Vickie Russo.
Arrangements are pending.
Please share memories of Augie with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
