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David Kirkland Root, 82, of Crown Point, IN and Melbourne, FL passed away suddenly on December 3, 2019 in his home.
Dave was born on November 26, 1937 in Chicago, IL. He grew up in Chicago and spent several summers in the Sierra Nevada Mountains where he enjoyed hunting, fishing and exploring. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the marines. He attended Ripon College, earning a degree in economics, and there he entered the Army ROTC program. He finished as an Honor Grad and received a regular Army commission. Dave served a total 23 years in the Army, including two combat tours in Vietnam. He was an Air-Borne paratrooper and retired as an army Major. In 1963, he married Barbara Néubauer, and they had two sons together, Gary and Aaron. Barbara passed away in 2005.
His military career enabled him to travel to places all over the world, including residing in Germany and South Korea.
After retiring from the military in 1982, Dave joined the family business, Root Brothers, and helped to grow it until a major force in the industrial distribution marketplace. Root Brothers is currently run by a third generation of Roots, Dave’s two children, Gary and Aaron.
Dave had a passion and skill for woodworking, and he could often be found in his workshop, which was one of his favorite places. Dave had a penchant for telling stories of adventures of his youth, loved reading, collecting wine and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was a walking, talking encyclopedia and an insightful investor and financial advisor.
Dave was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather. Dave is survived by sons Gary (Terri) Root, and Aaron (Holly) Root., sister Judy Root, and four grandchildren: Jarred (Squeak), Brandon (Squawk), Annalise (Sarah Ethel) and Leah (Bah).
Public Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2019 at Geisen Funeral, Cremation & Reception Centre, 606 E. 113th Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Skyline Memorial Park, 24800 S. Governors Hwy, Monee, IL 60449 at 2:00 PM.
12 Entries
Michael Wikan
December 8, 2019
Papa Duck was a part of our family and i have lost count of the times we laughed together and talked about serious things. He loved Samantha the moment he met her and welcomed her into his family instantly with the same warmth and love he did all of us. The world is a richer place because he was in our lives. We love you Dave.
Freddie Nelson
December 7, 2019
To my extended business family Mr. David will surely be missed, I pray for STRENGTH for our family.
GOD BLESS
Freddie Nelson
Jan Foley
December 7, 2019
spent a week on a cruise with Dave and his wife many, many years ago. Hard to get close to someone in a week, Dave was the exception. His winning smile was contagious. Fond journey to your next adventure
Jeff Lantz
December 6, 2019
Gary and Aaron, I am so sorry to learn of the passing of your father. He has definitely left a lasting legacy in the 2 of you, your families and your company and the the people that surround you.
Kathy Cochran
December 6, 2019
Gary, Aaron and family, no words can convey how much I loved Papa Duck and how deeply my heart hurts to lose him. Your father was one of the best friends I ever had. Please know we are all grieving with you - and for you. I can just see him and Mama Duck dancing away right now without a care in the world. Lord knows how much he missed his Dink. It helps a little to know they're together again. I love you guys. ~ The Rat
Nancy Redepenning
December 6, 2019
So very sorry for your loss. He was a nice man
Michael Root
December 6, 2019
There is so very much to remember with respect and affection about David, notable among them his joyfulness, integrity, kindness, and delight he took in his children and grandchildren.
Leslie Gesse
December 6, 2019
I'm so very sad to hear of your loss. You have my heartfelt sympathy. Leslie Bryan Gesse
Tarry & Maggie Brooks
December 5, 2019
Our Thoughts and prayers are with you all, Gary, Terry ,Jarred ,Brandon, Erin,Holly and family.
We spent some great times at Dave's Winery... he will never be forgotten!
Love, Tarry, Maggie and Coco
Landa Chaffer
December 4, 2019
All my sympathy to the Root family .I had the privilege of talking to Dave at the bank where I work . Such as nice man who produced a wonderful family . Love & prayers, Landa
Eric Smith
December 4, 2019
Our thoughts of sympathy and condolences go out to the entire Root family.
To a Distinguished Veteran, we thank David for his service and sacrifice made for our country.
A fine businessman whose efforts served the Roseland and Hammond communities along with a strong presence felt across the US. My Dad the late Al Smith Fenger High Grad 1954, always loved visiting Root Brothers Hardware, often saying they had everything needed for any size job. Oh how Dad loved that Root Brothers Service. Service that was authentic Southside. My Mom a Fenger High Grad 1953 sends her thoughts and prayers as well.
Heaven has a place set aside. Prayers are with David and his family. Thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time.
Eric Smith, representing the Smith and Cable Prep Families
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Dec
7
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Geisen Funeral Homes - Crown Point - Crown Point606 E. 113th Ave. , Crown Point, IN 46307
Dec
7
11:00 a.m.
Geisen Funeral Homes - Crown Point - Crown Point606 E. 113th Ave. , Crown Point, IN 46307
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Geisen Funeral Homes - Crown Point - Crown Point606 E. 113th Ave. , Crown Point, IN 46307