PORT ANGELES — With balloons released to the wind and messages written on the casket, family and friends said good-bye Friday to Frank Russo, a 14-year-old skateboarder who died June 17.
Observances lasted most of the day.
The day began with Russo’s memorial service officiated by the Rev. Kurt Nagel, at 11 a.m. at Queen of Angels Catholic Church, 209 W. 11th St.
Cars with messages to Russo written on their windows lined the streets surrounding the church.
“All skateboards and helmets must be placed in the gym or outside the church. Thank you,” read one sign set outside the church building. “Please join us at the gym for a reception,” read another.
More than 300 people attended the service, which Russo’s grandfather, Ken Laidlaw, described as “wonderful.”
After the service, a steady stream of mourners filed out of the church accompanying Russo’s casket to Ocean View Cemetery.
Dozens of Russo’s friends, many not old enough to drive, stood crying and hugging in everything from their Sunday best to T-shirts proclaiming “In Memory of Frank ‘The Tank’ Russo” that included his picture.
Russo’s little brother, Zach, a seventh-grader, released the first of 99 red balloons released to Russo’s memory in front of the church’s gymnasium. The balloons floated west.
At least 150 people attended the graveside service.
