Mervyn Robert Root was born in Minnedosa Manitoba on December 21, 1949, the oldest child, to Robert (Bob) and Elizabeth (Betty) Root. His siblings are Tom, Carol and Brian. The family moved to Wynyard in 1964 as Bob‘s job with the CPR brought them here. Merv took some of his schooling here in Wynyard. Merv started his career working with the CPR (following his father’s footsteps) at the age of 18 and continued working with the CPR until he took the offered buy out at the age of 52 and he retired when he was 55. On Oct 21, 1972 Merv married the love of his life, Diana Popyuk. They were blessed with two sons; Terry and Kevin. Merv was a hard worker and on his days off he could be found lending a helping hand to those who may need one- is it pouring cement, building or repairing something. He was always ready to lend a hand. Merv’s most cherished things in life were his family. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren take part in all their many endeavors. Merv loved his sports – playing with the Elfros hockey team, the CPR Steamers Rec hockey team, he played ball, and he curled and golfed. He also was a season ticket holder of the Rush lacrosse team, and enjoyed watching games with his family and friends. His biggest passion was his railroad memorabilia that he started collecting at a very early age. He loved to dance and he and Diana took in the dances at the Legion as often as possible. When they weren’t dancing Merv and Diana could be found playing in Three Spot tournaments or at a card party. Merv was predeceased by; his father, Bob, his in-laws Jack and Mary Popyuk. Brothers-in law Melvin Popyuk and Les Sukut and nephew Gary Sukut. He is survived by his wife of 45 years Diana, son Terry (Alice) and their sons Austin and Ashton; Kevin (Cathy) and their children Daniel, Chelsea and Shayla. His mother Betty (Frank), brothers - Tom (Deb), Brian (Joan), sister Carol (Ray), brothers and sisters-in-law John (Grace), Peter, Jennie Sukut, Bill (Anne) Popyuk , numerous nieces and nephews, aunts and uncles, family and friends. He will be missed by so many.