WATERTOWN, NY – Charles M. Root, 82, died peacefully on June 20, 2017 with his wife by his side.
Charles was born on June 18, 1935 in Syracuse, NY to Fredrick and Amelia Kirsch Root. He married Rosemary Cimilluca on January 15, 1955 and they raised five children. Charlie served proudly in the US Navy for three years during the Cold War patrolling the Mediterranean on a destroyer. Family was his greatest interest and focus throughout his life. He was a supportive and encouraging father. Charlie loved the woods and water, and was an avid sportsman, fisher and hunter. Charlie also loved all things mechanical, and was a woodworker after retirement. Charlie’s outgoing personality, his integrity, and his mastery of the mechanics which rose to artistry, contributed to a long and successful career. Charlie holds a patent on a wood splitter, where the wedge splits hydraulically, produced while employed at Hall Ski Lift for the company. Mr. Root was instrumental in the installation of the ski lifts for the 1980 Olympics in Lake Placid, NY.
Charlie is survived by the love of his life Rosemary, their children: Patricia, Scotia, NY; Timothy (Lisa), Dracut, MA; Mary Ellen (Joseph), Fresno, OH; David, Hamlin, NY; and Fredrick, Arlington, MA. Their 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters: Dorothy Root, Mary Cappon, John Root, Jeanne (“Buddy”) Spear, and David (Ruth) Root, brother-in-law “Red” Riley and dozens of nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Ann Riley.
Charlie also had many good friends from Copenhagen who loved and cared for him and Rosemary.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Cleveland Funeral Home, Watertown.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday June 22, 2017 from 4pm – 8pm at Cleveland Funeral Home, 404 Sherman St., Watertown. A funeral service will be said at 11am on Friday June 23, 2017 also at the Cleveland Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be shared at www.clevelandfuneralhomeinc.com.