Catherine E. (Falbo) Rootes

Catherine E. Rootes, age 92, formerly of Massillon, passed away Thursday, June 23, 2022.

She was born August 25,1929 in Pittsburgh, PA., daughter of the late John and Mary (DeMarco) Falbo.

Catherine was a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University. She majored in Russian, minored in Music, and she spoke French, Italian, and English fluently. Catherine was a pianist and a violinist. She was an honorary member of the Ohio Federation of Music. Catherine was a member of Rosary Alter and former president of St. Mary’s Catholic Church Columbian Ladies.

Catherine is survived by her husband of 36 years, Richard L. Rootes; daughters, Jean Ligtvoet and Karen Ligtvoet; son, Rudolf Ligtvoet; brother, John Falbo; grandchildren, Christin, Keiti and Jenna; great-grandchildren, Ariel, Merida, Quinn, Eddie, Livi and Rye; stepchildren, Rick, David, Anita, and John. She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Jim, Rose, Joe, and Jean; first husband, Rudolf Ligtvoet; son, Jeffrey Ligtvoet; grandson, Jonathan Ross.

Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2022 at 11 A.M. at St. Mary’s Catholic church with Fr. Edward Gretchko celebrant. Calling hours will be held at the church prior to the Mass from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. 

Her final place of rest will be Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Mary’s St. Vincent DePaul. 726 First St. N.E., Massillon, OH 44646. Condolences to the family may be made here on our tribute wall. 

www.heitger.com Heitger Funeral Home and Crematory 330-830-0148.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.