James Root, age 72, passed away on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

James was born on January 7, 1952, in Donnelly, MN, to James and Dolores Root. After graduating from Morris High School, he attended Willmar Tech College for sales and marketing. He spent his entire working life in the automotive parts business and for several years was the co-owner of Northern Automotive in Spooner, WI. He was an avid sportsman with a true love for deer, fox and wild turkey hunting. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and for 23 years belonged to the Sunday Night Odd Couples Bowling League. He is best remembered for his contagious laughter and great sense of humor.

James is survived by his wife of 52 years, Beverly (Smith) Root; daughters Heidi Root and Kristin “Libby” Root, of Spooner; son James M. Root of River Falls, WI; grandchildren Madelyn and Hazel Morrison and Harper and Dawson Bartle of Spooner; sister Sheryl (Charles) Hansen of Loveland, CO; brothers Dennis Root of Pine City, MN, Terry (Martha) Root of Cody, WY, and Tim (Deb) Root of Donnelly, MN; sister Angela Root of Madison, SD; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Randy.

Visitation will be at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Spooner, WI, on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon with a memorial mass at noon. Graveside service and burial will take place in the spring at St. Theresa Catholic Cemetery in Donnelly, MN.

In lieu of cut flowers due to allergies, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Day Respite Program, PO Box 453, Spooner, WI 54801.

Last Update: Nov 06, 2024 5:51 pm CST