Biography:
Russell F. Bonasso has been a tireless volunteer and friend to those in need for nearly 60 years. He has collected clothing for refugees from World War II; established health facilities in Guatemala and Equador; gathered and distributed more than 20,000 coats, jackets and sweaters for the needy in four states; provided Meals on Wheels to area residents; raised money for the United Way; delivered donated food to the poor and cooked for the homeless; served on the Governor’s Committee on Drug and Alcohol Abuse; led efforts to increase organ donations; and coordinated countless activities to assist others in need. He has received numerous awards including having a day proclaimed Russell F. Bonasso Day by the Marion County Commission, the Governors Service Award and the Marion County Senior Citizen Award. He is a charter member and a past president of the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival and a Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus member. He is a living testimonial to the power of lifelong education, completing his undergraduate degree Summa Cum Laude from Fairmont State—at the age of 74—and is taking courses toward his master’s degree. He has written two books, the proceeds of which have established scholarships through the Fairmont State Foundation. His more recent work is a comprehensive history of mining disasters, including those in his native West Virginia.
