Obituary of Robert Root

Robert Frederick Root August 2, 1916 - March 21, 2010 Robert Frederick Root was born in Grand Fork, North Dakota on August 2, 1916. He was the son of the late Walter Root and the late Viola (Cooper) Root. At a young age the family moved to Michigan. Robert was a 1933 graduate of Monroe High School. He enlisted in and served honorably as a member of the United States Army. Robert married the former Helen Gautz in Monroe, Michigan November 1939. She passed away in May of 1981 after 40 years of marriage. He was employed by Monroe Steel Castings for several years prior to starting the LaSalle Cabinet Shop which he operated for more than thirty years. As owner of the shop Robert satisfied his desire to work with his hands and he built many things, including china cabinets for all his children. He enjoyed the outdoors including fishing, camping, and visiting his cabin UP North near Petoskey, as well as riding his motorcycle when he was younger. Robert was an avid card player, enjoyed visiting garage sales, and spending time with his family and friends, He held memberships with Trinity Lutheran Church and their Men's Club, and also of the Monroe Kiwanis Club. Robert Frederick Root age 93 of Monroe passed away at 1:30am, Sunday, March 21, 2010 at the Medilodge of Monroe. In addition to his parents and his wife his passing was preceded by a son: Richard Root in 2002, and four siblings: Jack Root, William "Bill" Root, Helen Root, and James Root. He leaves to cherish his memory two sons: Don (Carol) Root of Charlotte, North Carolina, Gary (Barbara) Root of San Francisco, California, and Sharon Hazelton of LaSalle, Michigan; a daughter-in-law: Sharon Root also of LaSalle; eight grandchildren: Penny (Dave) Baumgartner, Chris (Elizabeth) Root, Wendy Holtz, Mike Root, Marissa Root, Alex Root, Tom (Tammy) Root, Tim Root, and twelve great grandchildren. Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 8:00pm, Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am, Wednesday, March 24, 2010 with the Rev. Bruce Crabtree Associate Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church officiating. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial. Graveside services will be under the auspices of Monroe Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1138. Memorial donations in Robert's honor may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church. Online words of inspiration and comfort can be made by visiting www.merklefuneralservice.com and then selecting the Life Stories page.