Thomas William Root

It is with heavy sadness that we announce that Thomas William Root, of Savanna, Illinois, passed away on January 16th, 2024 at the age of 94. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 5:30pm Saturday, February 24th, 2024 at the Community United Church of Christ, with a visitation from 3:30-5:30pm prior to the service.

Tom was born August 7, 1929, in Appleton, MN, the son of Harry and Amanda (Snyder) Root. Tom was a military veteran, serving during the Korean War. He was also a member of the American Legion. He obtained his bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University and later obtained his master’s degree from University of Wisconsin - Platteville. Tom married the love of his life, Lydia Almquist, on June 12, 1955. They went on to raise four children together in the home Tom built for them.

Tom was an extraordinary teacher of Industrial Arts, starting his teaching career at Hanover High School and then transferring to Savanna High School. After a 33 year long, successful career, he retired in 1991. He was steadfast and passionate in his work; he cared greatly about his students and taught them how to build things they never thought possible. Tom’s love of building didn’t stop when the workday ended. Over the years he built furniture and homes for his loved ones, worked contracted jobs for many people in the community, and volunteered his services at his local church and wherever needed.

Tom was an avid fisherman and spent many summers out on the Mississippi River and in Canada with his sons. When he wasn’t fishing, Tom and Lydia would hit the road in their motorhome, traveling the country. He cherished his morning coffee and conversations with his friends at McDonalds, as well as time spent with his family.

He is survived by sons, Joel Root, James Root, John Root, & Jeff (Eileen) Root; 7 grandchildren, Adrienne (Brook) Greenfield, Nicole (Kiel) Clenney, Matthew (Melissa) Root, Jared (Zoey) Root, Ethan Root, Grace Root, & Kalissa Root; 3 great grandchildren; and many dear friends and family. He is preceded in death by his wife, his parents, three brothers, and one sister.

In remembrance of Tom's life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to his home church, Community United Church of Christ, 346 Chicago Avenue, Savanna, IL 61074.