Farewell to Joe Russo's mum

Earlier this month, Joe Russo’s mother died back in Australia, aged 86.

Joe’s wife, Maria, and son (and the Swannie’s 2010 Rising Star), Nick, had not long left the family home when she suffered a stroke in her sleep.

Mrs Russo is also survived by her very healthy husband of no less than 63 years.

As previously planned, Joe and the family had already commenced the move back to Perth. Joe will be the last to leave Hanoi next week.

The Vietnam Swans send our deepest condolences to Joe, Maria, Nick and the rest of the family. We will be honoured to wear black armbands as a tribute to Mrs Russo at our next match.

Footnote: The Vietnam Swans are also very saddened to learn of today’s devastating earthquake in Christchurch which has been described as New Zealand’s darkest day: hundreds feared dead.