James Mark Root
James Mark Root of Billings was born in Chicago, IL on February 20th, 1951 to Edward and Betty Root. He was lost suddenly at Nelson Reservoir outside Malta, MT on May 31st, 2009. He spent his last day with the things he loved the most; his wife, his dog, his boat and his fishing pole. He was 58 years old.
Jim fell in love with the water and fishing as a boy in Chicago. In 1969, at age 17, he enlisted in the Coast Guard. He served in Vietnam, spent a year stationed in Hawaii, and was a part of Search and Rescue on Lake Michigan. In 1980 he moved to Billings, and on May 17th, 1981 he married the love of his life, Susan. The hunting and fishing of Montana were a passion he would cherish to his very last day.
He spent his career as a salesman. In his last years he worked for Humana, catering to the elderly. He was extremely dedicated to his job and his clientele, always available to help them with even the smallest of problems. Jim was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He had many friends but these were like brothers: Skip, Darryl, Dick, Rob, and Dave. Everyone knew that if they needed anything, they could call Jim. He had a special way of connecting with people. His grandchildren were the light of his life.
Jim is survived by his wife, Susan of Billings; his stepdaughters Michelle (Todd) Breum of Billings and Barbara (Tom) Rich of Salt Lake City, UT; his stepson Paul Kaneski of Snohomish, WA; his grandchildren Alysha, Corey, Eric, Luke, and Haily; his parents Edward and Betty; sisters Jackie (Frank) Lapetino and Cheryl (Ted) Crowley all of Buffalo Grove, IL; and his brother Donald (Patti) Root of Lake Geneva, WI. He is also survived by several nephews and nieces in the Chicago area. He was preceded in death by his brother Allen.
Cremation has taken place. Memorial Services will be held at 11:00 A.M., Tuesday, June 9, 2009, Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. A reception will follow at the Elk’s Club.
Memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, 2345 King Ave W, Billings, MT
Remembrances
Please leave your name and remembrance in this public guest book. Your comments will be shared on this page and forwarded to the family.
Susan,
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you and your family at this difficult time.
Gail (Atchison) Rudisill
We are so sorry for your tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. May your loving memories give you peace and strength. Gary & Barbara Anderson, Malta
Our sincere condolences on your loss.
He was so helpful to us with our insurance problems. We had great respect for him in just the short time that we knew him. Patricia and Lyn Blankenship