Stephen S. Root

Stephen (Steve) S. Root, 82, of Harwich Port, MA passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by family on March 29, 2024, after a battle with cancer.

Steve was born to John and Mary Root on March 10, 1942, in Springfield, MA. He attended local schools and graduated from Stonehill College in 1964. He then volunteered for The U.S. Army Infantry OCS at Fort Benning, GA.

After graduating from OCS, he married the love of his life, JoAnn Plasse on August 28, 1965. They spent a year at Fort Hood, TX before he was deployed to The U.S. Army jungle school in Panama and subsequently to a 1-year tour in Vietnam. Upon his return from Vietnam, he and JoAnn began their family, and he began his career of almost 30 years in the banking industry.

During Steve’s career in Springfield, he involved himself in many worthy causes. He loved Springfield and was proud to say he was a native son. After retiring from his banking career, he became the President of the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau, which he enjoyed.

In 2021 he decided to retire again, and he and JoAnn relocated to their summer home in Harwich Port, MA on Cape Cod where they spent over 23 years of pure joy. Spending time boating, fishing, and walking endless beaches with their golden retrievers. Steve especially loved shell fishing. He said he not only enjoyed the harvest but also the solitude & calmness the flats of Chatham’s waters provided. The most important times were spent with his family and his many friends.

Steve is survived by his wife, of over 58 years, JoAnn, son David (Rita) of Vista, CA, and his daughter Elise Lally (Frank) of Kingston, MA. He is also survived by 5 grandchildren whom he adored: Conor, Bridget, Jacqueline, Patrick, and Maggie. He is also survived by his sister Beverly LeClair (George) of Naples, FL, a niece and 3 nephews. He also leaves his very best friends Hank & Barbara Sargent of Laconia, NH, and Earl & Joan Harrington. Best buddies forever. Also, he leaves his group of fellow retirees here on the Cape, who called themselves the ROMEOs (retired old men eating out). Not only great friends but big supporters as Steve went through his cancer ordeal.

Services will be private. Contributions may be made to the Family Pantry of Cape Cod (Harwich, MA) or the Cape Cod Alzheimer’s Family Support Center (Brewster, MA)

Notes of comfort may be made to Steve’s family at www.chapmanfuneral.com