Veronica Russo, 82 died on Wednesday, April 10, 2019. She was born on November 2, 1936 in Windber a daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Buhala) Malik. On July 12, 1958, she married Joseph Russo who preceded her in death. She is survived by a daughter, Marie Favatella and husband Paul, of New Castle and Bedford. In addition to her husband and parents she was preceded in death by parents-in-law, Giuseppe and Maria Russo.

While Veronica grew up in Windber and graduated from Windber High School, she also lived part of her childhood in the Queens section of New York City. She'd take the train on her own there many summers to work in one of her aunt and uncle's bakery and frequently reminisced about doing so. She graduated as a Registered Nurse from Mercy Hospital and married Joe on July 12, 1958. She was employed as the Head Nurse in Ward D (men's ward) at Windber Hospital. She then worked as the Director of Nursing at the Church of the Brethren Home and later at Cameron Manor in Indiana, PA. She and Joe also owned Russo's Beer Mart in Johnstown. In January 1983, Veronica and Joe moved to Sacramento, CA, where she worked as a Director of Nursing and Nursing Home Administrator for various companies. She also worked for the California State Department of Health as a Health Facilities Evaluator and Trainer at the headquarters in Sacramento. She received many commendations during her employment with the State Department of Health. She also worked for the State of California Department of Veterans Affairs as the Assistant Inspector General. Veronica enjoyed being a nurse; it was in her blood. She was thoughtful and kind to people and she loved animals. She will be missed by her family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Those wishing may make memorial contributions in Veronica's name to the Alzheimer's Association, or your local humane society or other charity of your choice. Arrangements by the Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home, in Bedford.