Valentino “Val” Joseph Russo, 52, of Holliston, passed away at Newton Wellesley Hospital following a brief battle with cancer. Born and raised in Waltham, he was the son of Antonia (Mastantuoni) Russo of Waltham and the late Giovanni Russo. He was the husband of Carrie (Lathrop) Russo of Holliston.

Val was a graduate of Waltham High School and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and International Business from Northeastern University, a school he was proud to have attended. He dedicated his career to the Financial and IT/Cybersecurity industries most recently as a corporate trainer at Dragos, having previously worked at Thomson Reuters. His work allowed him to explore the world, visiting places like Saudi Arabia, Dubai, and the United Kingdom, where he embraced every opportunity to experience new cultures. A true epicurean at heart, Val had an enduring love for authentic food. He delighted in seeking out hidden gems, savoring each dish as a connection to the rich tapestry of culture it represented. His enthusiasm for culinary adventures often led him to share stories that transported friends and family to the places he had been.

Val was a proud, present father to Nicholas. As one of Nicholas’s biggest fans, Val never missed a soccer practice or game prior to his illness. His encouragement led Nicholas to try out for a travel soccer league, and he was over the moon when his son made the team. These moments of pride and support were central to their bond. Val, Carrie, and Nicholas shared countless hours watching Premier League soccer games, attending New England Revolution games, and pouring over soccer card purchases. These shared passions created cherished memories that will remain in their hearts forever.

Besides his wife, Val is survived by his son, Nicholas Russo of Holliston; his mother, Antonia Russo of Waltham; his sister, Tina Arcuri and her husband, Adriano, of Sudbury; his in-laws, John and Cynthia Lathrop of Newtonville, and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Josh Lathrop and his wife, Tracy, of Northboro, Deborah Lathrop of Waltham, Stephen Lathrop and his wife, Peggy, of Waltham, Daniel Lathrop and his wife, Brittany, of Robinson, TX. He also leaves behind 12 nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 29th from 5-8 PM at Chesmore Funeral Home of Holliston, 854 Washington St. A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 30th at 10 AM at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Lake Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Val’s memory to the Salvation Army, salvationarmyusa.org