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Chuck's obituary

Charles (Chuck) Robert Root, (81), of Bothell WA, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

Chuck was born on February 7, 1942, to John and Marion Root in Kalispell, MT. He grew up in the Bozeman and Belgrade area, near the Gallatin River, often fishing and exploring the riverside with his dog “Pal”, and his horse “Redwing”. His family’s humble beginnings instilled a strong work ethic and determination. Chuck participated in high school sports including basketball and football. He also played the tuba in high school and college band. He attended Montana State University for undergraduate work. His love of animals changed his career path from engineering to veterinary medicine. He attended Washington State University School of Veterinary Medicine. It was at WSU that he met his bride of 58 years, Joann. They furthered their educational pursuits together at Colorado State University where Chuck obtained his master’s degree in veterinary radiology.

Chuck spent his 57-year veterinary career in both academia and private practice. He recently retired after 39 years as owner and referral clinician at Animal Medical Imaging. The veterinary medicine community has lost a true gem. He tirelessly dedicated his career to the welfare of animals through compassion and expertise, willingly sharing this love with anyone he met.

In addition to the title of veterinarian, he was a devoted husband and father of 3 children and 4 grandchildren. He loved spending time with family and friends. Chuck loved to laugh and make others laugh. He was a jokester, often writing limericks. He loved telling dad jokes even if he was the only one who thought they were funny.

Chuck lived his life with integrity and love. He was welcoming and accepting of all who met him. In his unexpected passing, our family has been thoroughly blessed by the many kind and supportive words and gestures from around the world. Clearly Chuck touched many lives. He will be truly missed. We ask that you carry a part of him with you throughout your life and endeavors. He is watching over us all through the holes in the floor in heaven.

He will be profoundly missed and survived by his loving family; wife, Joann, three children, Jodi, Andrea, and Brian; son in law, Rachid, daughter in law, Janine as well as four amazing grandchildren, Safiya, Addie, Elias, and Norah. His extended family will also miss him. His three “grand puppies”, Leilani, Emerie and Harley, will also miss his pets and scratches behind the ear. Woof!!

In leu of flowers, please donate to your choice of animal shelter, rescue or any charitable organization that betters the lives of animals. 

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Memories & condolences

Chuck was not only a great veterinary radiologist, but a wonderful friend and colleague.  He was always great to talk t…
Chuck was not only a great veterinary radiologist, but a wonderful friend and colleague.  He was al…
Chuck was not only a great veterinary radiologist, but a wonderf…
I am so sorry to hear this news. Dr. Root was the first private practice veterinary radiologist that I worked with when…
I am so sorry to hear this news. Dr. Root was the first private practice veterinary radiologist tha…
I am so sorry to hear this news. Dr. Root was the first private …

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Charles "Chuck" Root