Thomas Root Obituary, Friends And Family Mourns Thomas Root

Thomas Root Obituary, Death – I just wanted to pause this morning to honor a man to whom I owe a lot. Our WSU band community is learning that Dr. Thomas Root passed away this morning. During the most of my time at Weber State University, Dr. Root served as the band director. To say the least, he was a wonderful man. When I complained about my audition for his band program, I was a low-achieving, if not incredibly conceited, high school student.

He was willing to take a gamble and give me a chance since he recognized enough potential in me. Then, as a freshman, I continued to overestimate my abilities and underperform. I ultimately decided to leave the band that autumn semester. He still extended a warm invitation to me when I was prepared to return.

He supported our fledgling indoor percussion program and gave me the chance to gain leadership skills while also acting as a safety net when I so frequently fell short, even if the world seemed to be telling him otherwise. To say nothing further about the man, he seemed truly committed to letting his pupils develop their musical talents in whatever way was most beneficial to them.  He saw the best in his students. Without his confidence in me, I am not sure I would be the person I am today. If he hadn’t taken a chance on that cocky student so frequently, I wouldn’t have had all of the great experiences I had.