Jack D. Root, Jr.

If my words did glow with the gold of sunshine 
And my tunes were played on the harp unstrung
Would you hear my voice come through the music? 
Would you hold it near as it were your own?

- Grateful Dead

Obituary

Jack D. Root, Jr. passed away on June 20, 2024 in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Born in San Diego, California, Jack lived in CA and Vestal, NY throughout his childhood and early 20's. He graduated from Vestal High School, Class of 1972. Jack later moved to Colorado where he lived for over 30 years until he moved to Tucson, AZ in 2011 to help care for his parents. He ultimately settled in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Jack is remembered for his sharp wit and contagious laugh, his intelligence and breadth of knowledge, and his deep love for his three children. Jack possessed a kind and generous heart, and his charisma and friendly nature allowed him to connect with people from all walks of life. Jack was a consummate Deadhead. Music was a touchstone for him, something that continues to inspire and provide joy to those closest to him. Jack loved dogs, rescuing multiple shelter dogs throughout his life who became his companions. We will remember Ghia, Pearl, Marsha, Layla, Isis, and Cider by his side. Jack is predeceased by his parents Jack D. Root, Sr. and Ruth M. Root. Jack is survived by his sister Diane Root; three children Caitlin Bednar (Ross), Christopher White-Root, Madison Root and their mothers Judith White and Elsa Erickson; grandchildren James and Charlotte Bednar; nephew Douglas Smith; niece Carly Smith and three great-nieces Lilly, Olivia, and Valerie Smith; and numerous friends and family members from the West to the East. We miss him and we are grateful for him. What a long, strange trip it's been.

A celebration of life honoring Jack Root will take place on Saturday, July 20 at 11 AM at My Brother's Bar in Denver, Colorado. See service tab for more details. 

Gallery

Memory wall

July 20, 2024

I'm going to miss our long video-chats. Jack loved to talk! Reminiscing about post high school days usually came up in any conversation. The photos: Jack at Love Furniture apartment, Jack with his beloved Matilda, with Steve Kresge and me at Karen Clark's house, with me and Karen Clark before they headed west in.
He was loving, kind, generous, funnier than hell, and a great friend. Love you Jack.

Nancy Buffum-Herman

July 20, 2024

What a wonderful man! On behalf of Chala’s Woodfire Grill in Mesilla, NM, we miss Jack tremendously and send our deepest sympathies to his family! Jack was a part of our Chala’s family and we sure miss his daily visits. Much love! ❤️

Christina Torres

July 19, 2024

A good friend for many years, starting when hanging out in high school. I was fortunate to have many business trips to Colorado in the 80's and 90's where I would stick around for the weekend to visit with Jack. Even if it was a few years between visits, we'd catch up and it would be like it had only been a few weeks. Unfortunately, less so recently. I will always remember the good-hearted soul with a great sense of humor and passion for life. Rest in peace, my friend.

Attached is the only photo I could find of us. At a running race in Denver, circa 1984, that Jack was helping to organize. He roped me into helping while I was there for the weekend.

Rick Freedman

July 19, 2024

Jack and Andy Shepp.

Also, Jack frequently posted this family photo.

Jon Goldstein

July 18, 2024

I think fondly of the summers we all stayed at “Vickies” cottage. All the laughter in the simplest of task, Like discovering the bulk section at Wegman’s that brought you to find the bulk harpoons to go with “Vickie’s” Whaler.

Thank you Jack for all laughs and for your friendship!
RIP Brother Jack!

Steve White

July 18, 2024

You're a hell of a guy, Uncle Jack. Lots of fond memories from over the years. My first online video game experience was compliments of you (which blew my little nine year old imagination). You turned me on to that silly band that became the soundtrack to so many events in my life. Your running gags with my folks were great- the "Good Drugs" Care Bear will always live rent free in my mind.

Wherever you've ended up, I hope that there will be at least something shakin on shakedown street for you.

Love ya always...

Timmy White

July 15, 2024

I have so many fond and fun memories of the White family vacations at the Hamlin cottage on Canandaigua Lake. Jack always came up with the funniest phrases and names for things.
“Surf’s up! Where’s Vicki?”
You always made me laugh.
Sail on, Jack.
Love and hugs to the entire family. My heart cries with yours. May your fond memories bring you comfort.

Cindy White Purdie

July 15, 2024

We will miss you, Jack. It was always good to connect, even after many years.

Jon and Terri Goldstein

Jon Goldstein

Service