Vernon-Brian J. Russo of W. Seneca Street passed away unexpectedly Saturday morning January 10, 2026 at the age of 72.

He was born in Ellenville, New York on August 24, 1953 a son of the late Joseph and Pansy (Dalskov) Russo and was a graduate of Amsterdam High School. On September 19, 1972 he enlisted with the United States Marines where he achieved the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged on September 16, 1976.

After his discharge Brian attended Hudson Valley Community College with the aspirations of becoming an Air Traffic Controller. He later met his wife and the two pursued Brian's family tradition of harness racing at Saratoga Raceway. Brian was then hooked on harness racing and continued to race at Saratoga Raceway until he had a truck accident on his way to the raceway. After recovering from his injuries Brian took up roots at the Western New York Harness Tracks before making Vernon Downs his home track. Most recently Brian could be seen walking his favorite horse Mower Sue So Fine around the backstretch of Vernon Downs.

He was a member of the Harness Horse Association of Central New York, the United States Trotting Association and was an avid reader and enjoyed knowledge of any kind.

Surviving is his one sister Willa Bertrand of Greenfield Center, several nieces, nephews and his fellow horsemen and horsewomen at Vernon Downs. Brian was predeceased by his parents and siblings.

In keeping with Brian's wishes there will be no public services. His family will have a Celebration of Life later this summer in Greenfield Center. Arrangements are with the Malecki Funeral Home of Vernon. Online condolences may be sent to maleckifuneralhome.com