ROOT - Marilyn K. Root, age 79, found her way to heaven on Monday, June 22nd, 2015. She is survived by her husband and life caregiver, James R Root. She is also survived by three children and seven grandchildren; son, David (Erin) Root and his sons Jeremy, Christopher and Will and step daughter, Brooke; daughter Lynda Root Coy and her children, Scott and McKenzie Coy; son, Jimmy and his daughters, Madison and Sarah Root. Marilyn beat the odds by living more than seven years battling lung cancer. She could not have done this without the love and caring of her family and many dear friends along with her special dog, Sophie. A memorial celebration service will take place according to Marilyn’s wishes at the Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Chapel (Kentwood) 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE on Friday July 17th at 11:00 am with a luncheon to follow. For those unable to make the Friday celebration service, the family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday (July 16th) at the funeral home from 5:00pm to 8:00pm. In lieu of flowers you can make a contribution in Marilyn’s name to God’s Kitchen of Grand Rapids, 303 Division Ave South, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 454-4110 or John Knox Community Food Pantry, 4150 Kalamazoo Ave., Grand Rapids, MI 49508. (616) 455-9411.