Obituary of Richard Howard Root

Richard "Dick" H. Root, age 75, of Rome, passed away peacefully at home on February 21, 2017, with his loving wife and family by his side. Dick was born in Sonyea, New York on June 7, 1941 to the late Oris B. and Anita Jaynes Root. He graduated from Rome Free Academy in 1960 and received his Associate's Degree from MVCC in 1963. He joined the Naval Reserve in 1959 and was honorably discharged in 1965. Dick worked for several companies including UNIVAC, MDS, Cogar Systems, ICL, and later as a consultant for PAR. Although Dick loved electronics, his first loves were family and sports for kids. He served as a coach and players' agent for the Rome National Little League for nine years. He was a life member of the Rome Elks Lodge #96. He loved blues music and gathering with his musician friends to play. Dick is survived by his loving wife, Cathy, and her son, Leo (Debbie) Boulerice; his daughter, Stacy (Todd) Harter; his sons, Kenneth (Shirley) and David Root; his brother, Tom (Mary Ann) Root; his grandchildren, Emily & Isabella Boulerice, Matt & Trevor Harter, and Andrea Root. He was predeceased by his first wife, Jeri Root and his sister Harriet Podkowka. A Celebration of Life Service will be at the Awaken Church (Assembly of God) at 207 N. Madison St. on Thursday, March 2nd, at 7pm. There are no calling hours. Dick leaves this life asking peace to all and love to all he had the fortune to meet. Arrangements are entrusted to the Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street. Please offer online condolences at: www.BarryFuneralHome.com.