Douglas William Root

Douglas William Root, age 65 of Pemberton, MN, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2026 surrounded by his loving family, after a battle with cancer.

Born on November 14, 1960, in Waseca, MN he was the son of Leland and Jo Ann (Larson) Root. He was raised in Waseca, where he attended school and graduated from Waseca High School in 1979. He continued his education at Vo-Tech in Pipestone, Minnesota, where he studied masonry.

On November 8, 1980, at St John's Lutheran Church in Alma City, he married Barbara Hoffman, the love of his life. What began with a blind date turned into a lasting love story, as the two built a life together filled with love, laughter, memories, and adventures along the way.

Doug and Barb began their married life in Waseca, where they put down roots and raised their family. When Doug made a career change from Brown Printing to working in the masonry trade with the union, a new chapter took them to Shakopee for a time. Eventually, they found their way back to Pemberton, returning to the community that felt like home.

Doug was happiest with a fishing pole in hand, ready to fish any time of year, in any season, whether on his own or with his family. Red Lake and Lake of the Woods were among his favorite fishing spots, where he had plenty of opportunities to reel in some good catches. He also enjoyed deer hunting and took pride in processing his own venison to enjoy throughout the year. When it came to cooking, Doug was the man in charge of the grill, even putting his skills to the test in a few grilling contests. Family gatherings wouldn't have been complete without his smoked turkey, prepared just the way he liked it. Doug also had a playful side and loved a good joke, a visit with friends, and a cold beverage in hand. He knew how to enjoy the simple pleasures in life and make the moments spent together that much more memorable.

Doug will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Barb; children, Natalie (Casey) Roeker and Brent (Gina) Root; grandchildren, Wyatt Root, Hadley Roeker, Presley Roeker, Matilda Root, and Nash Roeker; one brother, two sisters, along with in-laws, nieces, nephews, and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother and one sister.

A celebration of Doug's life will be held at a later date, and he will be laid to rest at Alma City Cemetery.