Larry Roots

Larry Burl Roots of Omaha died peacefully after a brief illness on April 12, 2025.

He was born in Omaha on March 9, 1951. He was raised in Ralston and Fremont and in 1974, he earned a BA degree from the University of Northern, CO in Greeley with an emphasis on painting and printmaking and certification to teach.

Larry didn't teach, but continued making art in the 1970's and 1980's. He went into business, first as co-owner of a screen printing business in Greeley, then working with architectural design and renovation in Sioux City, IA followed by several years as an executive in his father's waste industry business in Fremont. He left the business and became a full-time studio artist in painting and sculpting.

In 2003, Larry and wife Judy opened Modern Arts Midwest fine art gallery in Lincoln through 2011 and moved the business to Omaha (Modern Arts Midtown) which is currently in operation.

Larry has exhibited his art work in many shows throughout the Midwest and Santa Fe and received recognition in numerous articles and awards including the Undergraduate Alumni of the Year in the Visual Arts in 2005 from his alma mater.

Larry greatly loved his wife, sons and spouses, grandchildren and sister and was a friend and mentor to many.

He is survived by wife of 31 years, Judy (Budin) Roots; son Logan Roots and Misty Reeves and their children Fianna, Nova, Scarlett and Karma of Omaha; son Nick (Liz) Lange and their sons Miles and Colin of Lincoln; son Jim (Nora Greiman) Lange and son Isaac of Lincoln.; sister Jackie (Doug) Kluver of Omaha.; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Sharon (Bob) Cerv; Karen (Deon) Tiedtke; Donna Praest; numerous nieces and nephews; and cat Shadow.

Preceded in death by his parents Ronald and Karma Roots.

Larry requested a private family service. Planting Roots: In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Arbor Day Foundation by planting a tree.

To plant a tree in Larry's name, visit:  https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative-trees-for-others?producttype=TIM