Russell Root

Russell Kenneth Root, Sr. went to join his loving wife, Mary, in heaven on December 27, 2025, with family by his side. Russ was 89 years old, but who's counting? He was one of the good ones.

Russ leaves behind five children: Julie (Ron) Martin of Somerset, WI; John Root of Altoona, WI; Dianne Root (Todd Fanetti) of Bloomer, WI; Joanne (Reagan) Woolf of Tehachapi, CA; and Catherine (Dan) Helland of Eau Claire; 13 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; his "baby sister," Charlotte; nieces and nephews; and many more loving family members. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; his son, Russell, Jr.; infant son, Michael Alan; his parents, Evelyn and Everett; and brothers, Charlie, James, Gerald, George, and Lowell.

Russ grew up in Port Wing and served honorably in the United States Army before marrying the love of his life. He loved his family and was a child at heart; he always had a special connection with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Russ had the honor and privilege of meeting many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including his youngest namesake, his great-grandson Russell Root IV, and they played trucks and dinosaurs together.

Painters from all over Wisconsin knew and respected Russ. After a 37-year career managing Sherwin-Williams-with most of that time spent at the Eau Claire store-Russ was a stranger to no one and was always happy to share a joke and a smile.

He had a long retirement, but he was always busy: tinkering with paint sprayers in his garage, helping family with home projects, traveling with his wife, and having fun at the casinos. He was always a worker, but he did enjoy putting his feet up in his recliner and "resting his eyes."

We are thankful for all of the time and love that was poured into him. We are especially thankful to his youngest, Cathy, for giving us nine more months with him, and to Dianne for taking him into her home during that time to give him the very best care and love.

See you in the funny papers, Dad.

A Celebration of Life is being planned for June 27th, 2026.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.