Clayton Dyer Root III

1937 - 2025

Clayton Dyer Root, III

February 1, 1937 - October 25, 2025

Clayton Dyer Root, III , so named after his father and grandfather, was the first born in the next generation. He enjoyed three years of being the adored "King of the Hill" with his uncles and grandparents at the family home in Crown Point, until alas, a sister was born. Two years later the throne completely collapsed with the arrival of the twins. From then on he learned the art of compromise and negotiation.

In the summer of his 8th year Clayton departed the bus at the YMCA Camp Eberhart in Three Rivers, Michigan. Exiting the bus while munching a bag of peanuts, an enthusiastic camp counselor immediately nicknamed Clayton, "Peanuts", a named that followed him throughout his many years adventures at Camp. Clayton particularly enjoyed and excelled in the sailing program at Eberhart. Years later he was honored as a distinguished Alumnus of YMCA Camp Eberhart.

Clayton was a graduate of Crown Point High School, Cornell University, and Indiana University School of Law. He always enjoyed learning whether in formal classes, actively reading, adventure traveling or conversations with friends and colleagues.

Clayton located in Chicago for his professional career. He enjoyed a career in real estate analysis and real estate investment, and started his own mortgage brokerage business helping investors to acquire their desired real estate property.

Living in Chicago was an adventure for Clayton. With his love of sailing he became an active sailor on the Chicago lakefront, competing in regattas in his "Soling Class" sailboat. He enjoyed living in the Old Town/Near North area attending Cubs games, theater, music and arts events, and finding and sharing a unique restaurant with friends. He is survived by his very special friend and long-time companion Elizabeth (Betty) Campbell. In addition, he is survived by his siblings: Judith Root Stiles, Diana Root McCormac, and Daniel R. Root, as well as several dear life-long friends. His many nephews and nieces benefited from the wise counsel and example of their Chicago-based bachelor uncle.

A gathering to celebrate Clayton's life will be Saturday November 29, 11:30 a.m. at Chicago Yacht Club. Those wishing to remember Clayton may make a memorial gift to: The Crown Point Community Foundation; 115 S. Court Street; Crown Point, IN 46307. www.theCPCF.org.