Gordon Frank Root

Gordon Frank Root age 74 of Aitkin died on January 24, 2014 at the Riverwood Health Care Center in Aitkin. He was born on June 20, 1939 in New Richland, MN to Frank and Bernadine (Anderson) Root. He graduated from Aitkin High School in 1957. He then attended St. Cloud State and the University of Minnesota School of Mortuary Science. He worked in the funeral business for over 50 years. On June 24, 1961 he married Jean Kangas in Excelsior, MN. Gordon was active in many community affairs including city council, Sons of the American Legion, the fire department, Aitkin county deputy coroner, and operated the local Ben Franklin. His hobbies included collecting antiques especially firehouse memorabilia and ship related artifacts. He also loved and collected Russian icons. He enjoyed spending time with his friends. He loved Aitkin and its people. His favorite moments were being with his classmates of 1957 and his friends. Gordon left a message to his classmates and friends, "I'm not gonna say goodbye, I'm gonna say see you on the other side". Gordon is survived by his wife; 2 daughters Cheryle and Suzanne; three grandchildren Annie, Molly, and Cinneididh; and 1 sister, Carol Shields. He is preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be 1 pm on Thursday, January 30, 2014 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Aitkin. Burial will be at the Lakeview Cemetery in Aitkin. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 29th at St. John's Lutheran Church in Aitkin from 2 to 6 pm and on Thursday 1 hour prior to the services. Arrangements are with the Koop Funeral Home in Crosby.