Lelia Elena Russu

Lelia Elena Russu (née Fratila), born on October 18, 1927, passed away peacefully at the Bettendorf Health Care Center on July 31, 2022, where she had been cared for compassionately. 

Originally from Bucharest, Romania, she fled the communist regime and settled in Davenport, Iowa. Here she found many friends, especially the Hayes-Priester family, who surrounded her with affection and appreciation.    

Having a degree in business from the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, she had been working until her retirement as an economist and accountant. Lelia loved books, classical music, and painting. She enjoyed going to the Figge Art Museum and Quad City Symphony Orchestra concerts.

She was preceded in death by her husband Mircea, her sister Gina and brother-in-law Mario Weiss. Those left to miss Lelia and fondly remember her include her family Kitty and Bernhard Sudeick with Julia, Toni, Chris, and her dearest friends, Nancy and John Hayes with their children J.D., Marion, and Sarah.

            Graveside services will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Davenport at a later date. Halligan McCabe DeVries Funeral Home in Davenport is assisting the family with arrangements.