ROBERT ROOT OBITUARY- involved "Fullertonian"

Root, Robert E., 88, was born June 26, 1920 in San Francisco and passed away on October 29, 2008. Bob leaves behind two daughters, Pam Clark and Dawn Chesley; 7 grandchildren, Kenny, Daeleen, Renee, Erin, Michael, Cameron, and Bob; 9 great-grandchildren, Taylor, Grey, Grace, Megan, Ashlyn, Brittin, Sheldon, Jayden and Maxwell, and his beloved friend, Jane Watkins. Vivienne, his loving wife if 50 years died in 2000. Bob started in business with Emerson Electric in St. Lois, MO but then came back out west where he worked in the aerospace industry with Northrup, Rheem, American Electronics, Aerojet, and Zero manufacturing. In 1971 he left that industry and became a realtor with McGarvey Clark Realty where he was one of the company's top producers for the next 28 years. Bob moved to Fullerton with Viveinne in 1950 and was an involved "Fullertonian" from that day forward. He served on the City Council from 1968-1976 and was Mayor in 1972-1974. He also served on the City's Economic Development Committee. He was President of the Fullerton Recreational Riders, President of the Civic Light Opera, involved with the Realty Board, Chamber of Commerce, Boys and Girls Club, Siglos, and Golden Hearts. In 1985 he was honored as Fullerton's man of the Year and in 1988 received Rotary's "Most Ethical Businessman" award. Bob was also able to combine a life-long love of trains and interest in the betterment of the community when he became the founding President of the Fullerton Railway Plaza Association - an organization dedicated to bringing a train museum and destination attraction to downtown Fullerton. While that concept has not been realized yet, many thousands have enjoyed the Railway Days celebration that the organization helps put on each year. The memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church, Fullerton on Saturday, November 8 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fullerton Railway Plaza Association.
McAulay & Wallace Mortuary
Published in the Orange County Register from 11/3/2008 - 11/4/2008
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