Irma H. Russo, 71, cancer researcher

Irma H. Russo, 71, of Rydal, a dedicated and innovative researcher at Fox Chase Cancer Center, died Tuesday, June 25, of ovarian cancer at the hospital.

For the last 22 years, Dr. Russo worked at Fox Chase, first as director of surgical and clinical pathology, and then as director of the molecular endocrinology section of the Breast Cancer Research Laboratory. She and husband Dr. Jose Russo founded the lab in 1975.

"She will be remembered not only by her many friends, colleagues, and the more than 50 physicians and scientists she trained and mentored over the years, but also by [those] touched by her good nature," said Jonathan Chernoff, the center's chief scientific officer.

Born in San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina, she studied medicine at the National University of Cuyo, in Mendoza, where she met her future husband.

In 1971, they were invited by the Rockefeller Foundation to pursue their research in the United States, beginning 50 years of collaboration aimed at finding the causes of breast cancer, and how to prevent it.

Dr. Russo was a pioneer in identifying the mechanisms of breast cancer prevention and worked to develop a mode of prevention using a pregnancy hormone, and more recently, an amino acid.

With her husband, she published five books and more than 200 research articles. In 1994, she founded the League of Women Against Cancer. The group's mission is to provide education and help for women with cancer.

Her curiosity and mental dexterity led her into innovative research paths, such as the possible role of circadian rhythm in breast cancer development.

At an age when many retire, she continued looking for answers. She also played the piano, sang in a choir, and, at age 66, learned to scuba dive.

Her family described Dr. Russo as ready to help those in need, including those who contacted her from abroad. "Anybody who called for any advice or favor, she was right there," daughter Patricia A. Russo said.

Surviving, in addition to her husband and daughter, are a sister; and nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Monday, July 1, at Baron Rowland Funeral Home, 1059 Old York Rd., Abington. Visitation starts at 10 a.m. Interment is in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia.

Condolences to the family may be offered at www.baronrowlandfh.com.