Theodore D. “Ted” Root – 79 – of 1 South Main St., Almond, died Saturday afternoon (March 3, 2012) at Hornell Gardens, following a long illness.
Born in Livonia, NY on February 25, 1933, he was the son of Donald & Loleta Root.
Ted grew up in Atlanta, NY and was a graduate of Naples High School (Class of 1951). He later graduated from New York State Trooper Academy in Syracuse. He was a veteran of the US Navy, serving his country during the Korean Conflict. He has resided in Almond for the past 53 years.
From 1962 – 1982, Ted served as a New York State Trooper working out of the Almond Sub Station for most of those years. Following his retirement from the Troopers, he was employed for several years as a bartender at the Hornell Elks Lodge and for about 15 years worked for AL Blades in Hornell. Ted was a member of the American Association of State Troopers and was a former member of the Hornell Elks Lodge. He enjoyed visiting the casinos and has made a few trips to Atlantic City and many memorable trips to the casinos in Salamanca. He also enjoyed staying in touch with his many friends via email and also playing solitaire on the computer.
He was preceded in death by his son, T. Donald Root and also his grandson, Eric Drake.
Ted was married on January 16, 1959 to the former Wilma Mullen who survives. Also surviving are his daughter, Terri Jean Root Hirt of Olathe, KS; 2 step-sons, Jerry (Kathy) Drake of Almond and Guy (Eileen) Drake of Wellsville; 1 half-brother, Bob Leeson of Hawaii; 2 step-brothers¬, Stan (Phyllis) Rathbun of Atlanta, NY and Charlie (Gloria) Rathbun of Naples; 8 grandchildren, Ashley Hirt, Nate Hirt, Paul (Terri) Drake, Mary Bess (Shawn) Clark, Matthew Drake, Michelle Drake, Brian Drake and Greg Drake; 8 great-grandchildren’ 1 great-great-granddaughter; several nieces & nephews.
At Ted’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Ted’s family request that memorial contributions in his name be made to Southern Tier Hospice, 11751 East Corning Road, Corning, NY 14830.
Ted – Thank you for the sacrifices that you and your family made on behalf of the community during your time with the New York State Police. Rest in peace Trooper Ted Root.
Captain Tim Talley
New York State Police
Troop A, Zone 4 Commander
SP Amity
We are sadden to learn of Ted’s passing. We ask God to watch over him as he makes his final patrol and to watch over his family. He was a fine member of the New York State Troopers. God Bless.
Jerry, Kathy, Wilma and Guy – So sorry to read of your loss. I was reading about Brian Strobel and decided to look at the obituaries and saw Ted’s. He certainly had a good long life, I remember him riding through Almond in his cruiser it was always so exciting to know the local policeman. He had a great smile and was always nice to everyone. Please know you are in my prayers and I pray that he is at peace as well. God bless all of you!
wilma, i am thinking of you and am sorry for your loss. i will always remember ted as a genuinely nice man. take care wilma- sending you my love,
Nancy
Pensacola, FL