“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.” (James 1:12 NIV) Don Wood showed perseverance in the face of a lengthy illness. His example of humble persistence impacted all those around him: his friends, his church, and his family.
Donald Hillis Wood went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, December 30, 2014 in his Bellville home surrounded by his family. He was 81.
He was born August 20, 1933 in Delaware to parents Hillis & Ruth (Kellar) Wood. After he was graduated from Delaware Willis High School (where he was the starting center for their undefeated football team), Don attended business school in Columbus where a certain young lady caught his eye. He soon proposed to Sylvia Wright and the pair married June 3, 1956.
Don worked for Smith Dairy and as a supervisor for Quick Chek. He had a hardworking spirit and almost never missed a day of work. He also never missed his kids’ sporting events—he even coached youth league football and baseball. Don liked all sports, and on a day off you could find him golfing at a local course or eating homemade ice cream. His favorite vacations involved a campground or a beach.
Don & his wife are members of First Alliance Church in Mansfield and he worshiped there many years. More recently, the couple attended Clear Fork Alliance Church in Bellville and he dearly loved both church families. He was also a member of the Bellville Lion’s Club and Gideon’s International.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years Sylvia Wood of Bellville; four children (& spouses) Mark Wood of Ontario, Michele & Eric Fisher of Galion, April Krausman of Bellville, and David & Carrie Wood of Ontario; thirteen grandchildren Jamie, AJ, Connor, Tara, Ryan, Megan, Amanda, Brandon, Ashley, Tylor, Kaylee, Emily, and Carson; seven great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Jackie Wood of Ontario; and two sisters Donna & Patty.
Don was preceded in death by his parents.
His family will receive friends 4-7 p.m. Friday, January 2, 2015 in the Bellville Snyder Funeral Home, 81 Mill Road, where a funeral service honoring his life will be held 1:30 p.m. Saturday. The Rev. Dr. Michael V. Stine will officiate and burial will follow in Bellville Cemetery.
Contributions in his memory to Gideon’s International or Clear Fork Alliance Church (memo line: Great Commission Fund) may be made at the funeral home.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Don’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence to them at SnyderFuneralHomes.com
