ROOT, GARY F. of Waterford, passed away July 22, 2024 at 83 years of age. Loving husband of Peggy (née Cochrane) for 59 years; loving father of Sue Powers, Sandy (Ron) Foster, and Gary (Darlene) Root; grandfather of Scott (Amber), Cameron (Rodney), Emily, and Katie; great grandfather of 5; brother of the late Janet Malloy. Gary was born in Pontiac to Frederick and Ruth (née Ellis) in 1941. He was a career police officer, first with the Pontiac Police Department and would retire as police chief of the Waterford Police Department after 34 years of decorated service. He was a man of the community and a devoted husband and father. With his great sense of humor he enjoyed life to the fullest, golfing; boating; bowling; traveling in their RV; or wintering in Florida. He enjoyed singing, to the radio or karaoke, or just humming along. He will be forever missed and loved. Funeral service Friday, July 26, 2024 at 11 AM at COATS FUNERAL HOME-WATERFORD. Private burial Crescent Hills Cemetery, Waterford. Family will receive friends Thursday 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial. T