Obituary of Gilbert R. Wood

Athol: Gilbert R. Wood, Sr., 84, of Mud Street, passed away Thursday, February 5, 2015, following a long illness, surrounded by his loving family at his home; the very house he was born in. Born June 16, 1930 in Thurman, he was the son of the late Calvin D. and Ollie M. (Fuller) Wood. Gilbert was drafted into the United States Army in 1951, where he proudly severed his country stateside during the Korean War, before being honorably discharged in 1953. He married Rosalie “Rose” Broe in December of 1953. The couple would spend countless hours tending to their gardens, all while raising nine children. Gilbert was a lifelong resident of the area and will be remembered for his love of animals, especially his dog, Tippy. He was an avid farmer, gardener, and story teller. He enjoyed spending time with his family and would never turn his back on anyone; always willing to lend a hand to a friend in need. He worked as a logger for many years with Goodman Brothers Logging in Johnsburg, where he became lifelong friends with Phil and Ned Goodman. Later, Gilbert began his employment with the Thurman Highway Department as a heavy equipment operator. He retired following 16 years of faithful service to the town, at the age of 62. In addition to his parents and beloved wife of over 50 years, Gilbert was predeceased by two children, Michael and Ann Wood. He is survived by seven children, Gilbert Wood, Jr., of Thurman, Judy Hall and her husband, Jack, of Warrensburg, Rosalie Bentley and her husband, Barry, of Warrensburg, Diane Wood, of Warrensburg, Janet Wood and Patrick Wood, both of Thurman, and Laurel Wood of Queensbury. He also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. At Gilbert’s request there will be no calling hours scheduled. A graveside service with military honors to celebrate his life will take place in the spring at a time to be announced in Reynolds Cemetery. A reception will follow the graveside service at “The Farm” on Mud Street, all are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that expressions of sympathy may take the form of a “random act of kindness” in Gilbert’s memory. Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online guest book and condolences.