ROOT, JR., Russell K., age 54

Died: Sunday, October 25th, 2015

Celebration of Life: 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2015 at the Eau Claire Rod and Gun Club located in Seymour

Benefit Dinner: Saturday, November 7 at the Red Zone from 12:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Interment: a private burial will be held at a later date

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred

Russell "Russ" K. Root, Jr., age 54, of Eau Claire passed away the night of October 25, 2015 of a heart attack at his residence in Seymour.

Russ was born on November 23, 1960 to Russell and Mary Root in Superior, WI. Following his education at North High School, he began his painting career. Russ loved the outdoors whether it was on a snowmobile, motorcycle, boat, or an ATV. He enjoyed his hunting, fishing, and trapping. He was always found on the move doing projects for someone or out helping them in their time of need. His humor and love of life will never be forgotten. Russ was everyone's best friend and will be greatly missed.

He leaves behind the love of his life, his wife of 30 years, Wendy (Patraz) Root of Eau Claire; their pride and joy, son, Russell, III and his wife, Amber, both stationed in Lemoore, CA with the U.S. Navy; his loving parents, Russell and Mary Root of Eau Claire; siblings, Julie (Ron) Martin of Somerset, WI, John Root of Altoona, Dianne Root (Todd Fanetti) of Bloomer, Joanne (Reagan) Woolf of Tehachapi, CA, and Catherine (Dan) Helland of Eau Claire; parents-in-law, Duane and Zoe Patraz; many nephews, nieces, other relatives and friends; and his beloved dogs, Bandit and Junior.

His grandparents and brother, Michael, preceded him in death.