Donald Allen "Don" Root, age 68, of Cohasset, Minnesota, formerly of Deer River, passed away Sunday, November 9, 2025, surrounded by his family at home.

Don was born August 11, 1957, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota to John and Marian (Pellersels) Root Jr. Don grew up in Deer River, Minnesota and graduated from Deer River High School with the Class of 1975. He went on to attend Bemidji Tech, and in 1977 completed his training in auto body and mechanics.  Don worked for various auto repair shops in the area before opening Deer River Service in 1986.

It was in 2000 that he met his future bride, Anna Mattson, at the Itasca County Fair. On September 15, 2007, Don and Anna were united in marriage, and have made their home in Cohasset, Minnesota. He continued to own and operate Deer River Service until his retirement on January 2, 2018, after 32 years of exceptional service. Don enjoyed riding motorcycles, and following his favorite team, the Minnesota Vikings.  His passion for cars continued as he loved spending time tinkering and restoring cars with his brother Chuck and cousin Art.  Don took great pride in passing on his knowledge and skill to his son, grandson, and cousin.

He was preceded in death by his parents John Root Jr and Marian (Pellersels) Root-Hoopman; grandparents John Root Sr and Olive (Tizzard) Root, Reuben Pellersels and Opal (Fyfe) Pellersels; brother Jim Root.

Don is survived by his wife Anna; daughters Carla Root and Kayla Root; son Greg (Kate) Root; stepdaughters Valarie (Steve) Winkleman, Samantha (Jeremy) Van Wert, and Clarissa Kostka; grandchildren Haylee, Sheldon, Elsie, Robin, Thaddeus, and Penny; great granddaughter Harper.

Thank you to Essentia Health Hospice, especially Don's nurse Julie, for the wonderful care he received.

A Celebration Honoring Don's Life will be held Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Rowe Funeral Home, Grand Rapids, MN. All are invited to enjoy food and fellowship throughout the celebration.