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Russell Paternostro Obituary

Russell Joseph Paternostro passed away on Friday, December 28, 2012 at age 71. He leaves his beloved wife of 48 years, Mercedes Paternostro, his children Angela Paternostro, Robyn Ortego and spouse Tommy. He also leaves his adored grandsons Derek Paternostro, Brandon and Jonathon Ortego. Russell dedicated his life to the pursuit of wellness and sports fitness. He was the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the New Orleans Saints from 1980-1996. Through numerous other ventures, he demonstrated his passion and devotion for helping people attain their health goals. He was the 2005 Award Recipient of the Emrich Riecke Jones Presidential Award for his exceptional accomplishments in the field of sports strength and conditioning. He was currently working with the St. Tammany Parish DA's Office. A native of New Orleans, he was a resident of Covington, La for the past 26 years. A friend and mentor to so many, Russell will be remembered for his undying passion for people. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral service at St. Peter Catholic Church, 125 19th Ave.( Corner of Jefferson Ave. and E.19th Ave.), Covington, LA 70433 on Wednesday, January 2, 2013. Visitation, AT THE CHURCH, will be at 10:00 AM. Church services will begin at 2:00 PM. Interment in Pinecrest Memorial Gardens. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home Inc., 2260 W. 21st. Ave., Covington, LA 70433 entrusted with the arrangements. Sign Guest Book online at www.ejfieldingfh.com.

Published by The Advocate from Dec. 29, 2012 to Jan. 2, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for Russell Paternostro

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Mercy I just heard of Russell's passing. Would have been there. Ken and myself have fond memories of Russell with his training. His smile and laugh we will always remember. Miss you all so much. May God give you and your family strength at this time of morning. Take care, Kathy & Ken Pitre

January 28, 2013

Mercy and family, I just learned of Russell's passing. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers for you all. Carolyn Cambre Fraychineaud

January 4, 2013

It is with a heavy sadness that I learned only today that Russel has reached the coda at 71.I really like the photo above because it captures the essence of Russel's congeniality.He could tell you you're fat in just the nicest way. He'd look toward my ever expanding waist and say,"Hey ,now,hey...," prompting promises to do something about it. And when I did make it to the gym, Russel would sometimes approach me with a look of mock disgust and ask"What are tryng to do?" And before I could answer he would be shaking his head and saying with a laugh,"No,no,no...do it like this." His advice was always right on the mark.I will miss him greatly. My deepest condolences to Mrs Paternostro and family.Godspeed ye ,Russel.

Reggie Badeaux

January 3, 2013

Russell was a great guy and will be sadly missed. It was our honor to call him a friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his entire family.

Eddie Peggy and JP Sapir

January 2, 2013

Today I said good bye to an old friend Russell Paternostro. I first met Russell in 1962 at Nails Martin's Crescent City Health club where he and I worked out. We became friends, Russell was one of those rare individuals who believed in helping those who needed help. He will be missed.

Bill Crumb

January 2, 2013

I am saddened to hear of the passing of my old friend. I will never forget the hard intense workouts you would always have me do. I thank you my friend. Rest in peace Russell. Roy D

Roy DiVincenti

January 2, 2013

Russell, although it is so difficult to accept and understand your passing, we are bound by our faith that you are now at total peace and harmony and you will forever share eternal calm. Look not back at the sadness and tears of the ones who grieve, for in our hearts there is truly abundant and overwhelming joy for having known you and had you in our life. Until we meet again, soar high with the other Angels my friend and know in the reflection of your life. . . . “you did well”.

Vincent Marillion

January 2, 2013

It is hard to put into words how sad I feel right now. What a wonderful person who will truly be missed. I thought so much of this dear friend. I admired him and will miss his wonderful friendship. God bless all of his family during this time. I am very lucky to have known him.

Deborah Walls

January 2, 2013

Our grandmother took us both in as little children when our mothers couldn't take of us, so he was more like a brother to me than a first cousin. We will miss him dearly. Our hearts and prayers go out to his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Myrlene Cheramie Pertuit

January 1, 2013

The world lost a great guy. Thanks so much for teaching me how to work out. I still use some of the sayings we use to laugh about. The word "check" will always be a part of my vocabulary. Rest in peace my friend and I look forward to training with you.

Russell Erxleben

January 1, 2013

Russell was a great friend, like a brother. I will miss him.

Lloyd Guillot

January 1, 2013

Russell you will be missed more than you know. I was lucky enough to have learned some of life's greatest assets from you. Your happiness, humor, and expect for excellence is something I will carry with me forever. My God give Mercy, Angela, Robyn and the boys the same strength you taught them to get through this difficult time.

Toni Hunt

January 1, 2013

I remember so fondly Russell when we had our days at Delta Professional Diving way back when. Russell was one of those people that left a lasting impression. My deepest condolences to the family.

Virginia Rodrigue

January 1, 2013

I have fond memories, of RUSSELL.I'm so sadden,of his passing My condolence ROBERT THIELER

ROBERT THIELER

January 1, 2013

Goodby old friend.
Russell, The Lord blessed you at an early age so that all with whom you came in contact felt like they were a special friend. He continued to bless you with that precious gift throughout your life.
When we will all be united in God's eternal kingdom, I'm sure we're going to hear your voice singing out, "Hello Brother."
Dave and Barbara Duplantis

Dave Duplantis

December 31, 2012

So sorry to hear about Russell, may God be with his family at this time. - Clark Barrios, Sr.

December 31, 2012

We will always remember his love for family and friends, and how good and kind he was. Uncle Russ had a contagious sense of humor, and a smile that lit up the room. He will forever be loved, adored and admired by all who were privileged to know him. You will be sadly missed. RIP, Russell

Vicki & Chris Savoie

December 31, 2012

Our deepest condolences to the family.
The DiVincenti Family
Gretna, La

December 31, 2012

Stretch was the best! Our deepest thoughts to your family and prayers for you. God bless you all. Carl and Vicki Mauck

carl mauck

December 31, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

ALEX BILLIOT

December 31, 2012

We are so sad to hear about Russell. He was a role model and a mentor over the years to so many, myself included. He was a good friend to us all and will be sorely missed. We send you strength and love to get through this difficult time. Laurie and Wade Phillips

Laurie Phillips

December 30, 2012

You made your mark in our life that left good memories to us all.Now it is time for you to reap your reward from our LORD...BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.,,,

RONNIE SCHOUEST

December 30, 2012

We were very saddened at the news of Russell's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, his family, and we will keep Russell in our prayers.

George and Dottie Hebert

George and Dottie Hebert

December 30, 2012

We will all miss Coach. He was an inspiring man, and brought so much happiness to those fortunate enough to know him. My deepest sympathy to his family.

Leigh Anne Wall

December 30, 2012

To Mercy, Angela, Robyn and the family -- we are really sorry to hear the news. Russell meant an awful lot to us and through the years I was blessed to have him as a friend. Our best wishes to you and your families as we all fondly remember Russell and deal with our loss.

Rusty and Donna Kasmiersky

December 30, 2012

Good Bye my good friend.....we will never forget you....rest in peace

Phyllis & Cotton Clements

December 30, 2012

So sorry for your loss.

Wesley & Jean Boudreaux

December 30, 2012

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Tom and Jeanne Bourgeois

December 30, 2012

Many sympathies to the Paternostro family, I only met Mr. Russell one time but that one time was very enjoyable because of his incredible sense of humor. I know his work with the Saints will also be remembered as well. Many thoughts and blessings to you all.

William Taylor

December 30, 2012

I remember you Russell from Westwego High School. You will be missed, Bobby

Bobby Matherne

December 30, 2012

We have memories of you that will never be forgotten, we love you and all the special times that you gave to our family. You were always thoughtful and helpful and we have fond memories of the times spent in the gym,work, and the Saints training camp. You always made everyone feel special. We love you and you will be sadly missed.

Leon (Sonny) & Connie Terrase

December 29, 2012

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

The Staff of E.J. Fielding Funeral Home

December 29, 2012

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