Richard "Rick" P. Root, 68, of Towanda, Formerly of Canton, passed away at his home on Monday, October 28, 2024, while surrounded by his family. Richard Paul was born January 27, 1956, in Troy. He was the son of the late William and Carmella (Bettucci) Root. Rick attended Canton Area Schools and was a graduate of the class of 1974. On August 17, 1974, Rick married his soulmate, the former Mary Kithcart in the Grover Church of Christ. Together they shared 50 years of loving marriage and raised two children. A very hard worker, Rick owned and operated Roots Appliances for several years until his retirement in 2023. He was a member of the Amvets in Towanda.

Rick loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting and fishing. Watching and feeding wildlife was something he truly enjoyed. Rick took pride in yard work and he and Mary had a beautiful perennial garden they treasured. Family was always most important to Rick; he was a true family man.

Rick leaves behind his wife, Mary, at home, children; Amy (Don Jr.) Savercool and William H. Root (Dani Landry), grandchildren; Mya and Owen Savercool and Molly, Laura and Gabby Larcom all of Towanda, brothers; Joseph (Kathy) Root of Jersey Shore, William (April) Root of Granville Summit, and Edward (Jeanine) Root of Canton, sisters; Elizabeth (John) Ward of Canton and Rebecca Johnson of Ithaca, Ny, brother-in-law; Bud Porter of Canton, his beloved cat; Smores as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Besides his parents, Rick was predeceased by a sister; Diane Porter and his canine companion Buddy.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Drive is assisting the family with arrangements. Memories of Rick and condolences to his family may be shared by visiting www.pepperfuneralhomes.com