Walter “Ed” Root, Jr. passed away peacefully on November 9th, 2025. He was born in Santa Cruz, CA to Irene and Walter “Ed” Root, Sr. He attended Mission Hill Junior High and graduated from Santa Cruz High School. He was a Korean War veteran serving in the United States Airforce as a loadmaster. It was in the military where he met the love of his life, Dolores “Dorie”. Upon discharge, he worked as a shipping and receiving foreman at the Wrigley’s factory in Santa Cruz. During his free time, Ed loved to play trumpet, garden, and read. He liked keeping up on the current political climate and enjoyed coaching Little League Baseball for all ages.

Ed is survived by his wife of 70 years, Dolores Root; daughter, Cathy Root; daughter-in-law, Diana Root; grandsons Mark and Daniel (Lulu) Root; great-grandson Hugo Root and several cousins. He is preceded in death by his son Dutch Root; parents, Irene and Walter Sr.; and brothers, John and Donald Root. No service will be held per Ed’s request. The family wishes to thank Pacific Coast Manor, Valley Haven, and Hospice of Santa Cruz for their excellent care. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Ed’s name to American Cancer Society, the ALS Association or Hospice of Santa Cruz County.