Michael L. “Iron Mike” Russo, 86, of Elkhart, died on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka.

He was born on May 23, 1940, in South Bend to the late Victor F. and Bernece (Fields) Russo.

Mike married Karen Dunlap in the Bahamas in February 2010. She survives along with his son, Victor A. “Tony” (Angie) Russo of Bristol; two beloved grandsons, Dominic and Sam, also of Bristol; his brother, Victor F. (Bonnie) Russo Jr. of Mishawaka; three nieces: Gina (Rocky) Verteramo of South Bend, Alissa Russo of Naperville, IL, Bridget Russo of Mishawaka and a nephew, Nathaniel (Amanda) Russo of North Liberty, IN.

Iron Mike graduated from St. Edwards University in Austin, TX in 1963 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. After his discharge from the U.S. Army, he began his professional work career as a field auditor for the Associates. A short while later, his career path took a turn and he began working in the restaurant industry, owning Minelli’s Steak House as well as The Imperial Inn. On November 9, 1971, Mike opened Continental Liquor Store, which is still in business today. He was the president of Delmar Motor Coach and also worked for a while at Eclipse Van Conversion.

Mike was a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Indiana Beverage Retailers Association, a former member of the Italian American Relief Association (I.A.R.A.), past president and member of the Morris Park Country Club and a member of the Meadowood Country Club/Pantherwoods Country Club in Florida. He was also an avid Notre Dame fan.

Visitation for Mike will be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, from 4 pm to 7 pm at Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at St. Bavo Catholic Church 501 W. 7th St. Mishawaka, IN. Father Francis Mwanje will officiate and entombment will be in Fairview Cemetery in Mishawaka.

Memorial contributions in memory of Iron Mike may be made to St. Edwards University 3001 S. Congress Ave. Austin, TX 78704.