Michael Wayne Root, 58

Michael Wayne Root, 58, was born in Kalispell to Norman and Jeanna (Larson) Root, the second of five children. He attended Peterson and Elrod Elementary, Linderman, Kalispell Jr. High, graduating from Flathead High School. Michael cherished the years spent with friends, playing football, and enjoying water and snow skiing and being an active part of his Scouting Troop. It was during his high school years that Michael met Michelle, the love of his life.

One of his greatest achievements was overcoming the challenges following a boating accident on Echo Lake. He was a proud Eagle Scout and member of the Order of the Arrow. He later served as a scoutmaster, guiding many young men to earn their own Eagle Scout awards. Most of all, Michael’s great joys were his family — his loving wife, two sons, their wives and three grandchildren. He loved his parents and siblings with all his heart.  

He loved spending time with his dad and brothers at Root Masonry, hunting, fishing, boating and being in the outdoors.

Michael and his family lived in Gilbert, Arizona, for many years, where he made lifelong friends. He was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was a dedicated family man, a loving husband, and father, and someone who deeply valued service to others. His life reflects both personal resilience and a commitment to helping those around him.

He is survived by his wife, Michelle, their two sons, two daughters-in-law, and three grandchildren, as well as his parents, Norman and Jeanna Root, his sisters Christine Smith (David) and Anna Wilson (Dustin), and his brothers Daniel Root (Amy) and Benjamin Root (Aimee). He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles who adored him.

Michael was welcomed into Heaven by many loved ones who had gone before him.

A celebration of Michael's life will be held on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 10 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1380 Whitefish Stage Rd., Kalispell.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Michael’s honor to the Abbie Shelter in Kalispell at abbieshelter.org.