Charles H. Root

Charles H. Root, of Englewood, Florida, died peacefully in his home on January 20, 2020 after a valiant two-year battle with cancer. Charles was born to Harvey Root and Golden Elvira Root (Calhoon) on December 15, 1936, in their home in Frankfort, Indiana.  He attended and graduated from Frankfort High School in the Class of 1955 where he was an instrumental member of the high school basketball team.  Charles continued his education at Earlham College, where he met and married Anna Burr, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in political science.

Charles moved to New Jersey where he fathered two daughters, Cynthia and Jenifer and worked for New Jersey’s Court systems.  The family then moved to New York where he met and married Jo Ann Friedell.  Charles worked for New York State in the Department of Social Services until his retirement as Director of the Bureau of Service Information in 1989. 

Charles enjoyed an active retirement in Englewood, Florida, traveling extensively and walking the beach each morning collecting shark’s teeth and other fossils. He was an avid bike rider and loved his life in Florida, growing citrus and banana trees.

Charles is survived and loved by his wife, Jo Ann, his daughters and their families; Cynthia Foucault and Jenifer (Peter) Riggi; and was the proud grandfather of Marissa (Riggi) Siddique, Emily Riggi, and Dana Foucault; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Bobby (and wife Mary Ellen) Friedell, Carol (and husband Vernon) Clifford, Robin (and husband George) Smith and Guy Davis;  his brother, Joe (and wife Sue) Root; nieces, Tammy Sedwick and Tina (and husband Scott) Larimore; and great nephews and nieces, Blayne Root, Brock Howe, Brandon Larimore, and Shelby Larimore.

Charles was predeceased by his sister, Lucetta Jarboe, however her life lives on by her children and their families.

No services are planned at this time.