Gretchen Morrow Howe Russo, a much-loved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, daughter, and aunt, passed away peacefully on July 19th, 2025, in Rochester, New York, after a six-year journey with Alzheimer’s disease.  

Gretchen graduated from Charlotte High School and Hood College.  She began her 20-year career with Monroe County as a Social Worker. She rose to serve as the Monroe County Treasurer, where she was highly regarded and respected for her professionalism, dedication, and quick mind.  Gretchen was passionate about many things, especially her family and friends.  She loved to travel and was especially fond of Ireland and country music venues.  Her photographic skills displayed her love of nature, featuring sunsets and flowers.  Buying and selling homes was one of her hobbies, and her favorites were located on the water, as she had cottages on Lake Ontario and a condominium in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Gretchen was an avid reader and lover of pets.  Her laugh was infectious and heard often.  She was an inquisitive and attentive listener, making each person feel special and appreciated.  

Gretchen is preceded by her husband, Francis J. Russo, and her parents, Gordon A. Howe and Lois Speares Howe.  She is survived by her Korean adopted daughters, Jessica Howe (John) and Rachel Zapata-Bermudez (Mauricio); grandchildren, Haesung and Hannah La, and Angelica and Samantha Zapata-Bermudez; brothers, Gordon Howe (Sharon) and David Howe; nieces, Katherine Howe Fox, Emily, and Margaret Howe; nephew, David (Casey) Howe.  

Memorial may be made to Camp Good Days and Special Times, 1332 Pittsford Mendon Road, Mendon, NY 14506 

Or

Greece Public Library, 2 Vince Tofany Blvd., Rochester, NY 14612