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In Memory

Dennis Barney Wood - Class Of 1952 VIEW PROFILE

 

Dennis "Woody" Barney Wood June 4, 1934 - Aug. 26, 2015 SOUTH BEND - Dennis died peacefully in his home on Wednesday, August 26th, 2015, with his loving wife beside him. Dennis was born in South Bend, Indiana, on June 4th, 1934, to Margarette Ann (Kulchar) and Edward Frederick Wood. He grew up in South Bend's historically Hungarian neighborhood on the southwest side with his older brother Edward and sister Alanna (Chmiel). His mother lovingly referred to him as 'my joy,' as he lit up the room with his warm heart, quick wit, and mischievous smile. Dennis was a paratrooper in the 508th Infantry Regiment during the Korean War and an amateur pilot upon his return. He trained as an electronic technician, and eventually began his own company in St. Joseph, MI. He was a forerunner in industrial communications, applying them in regional industries such as Bendix/Bosch. Dennis lived his life taking leaps of faith, and left this world unbowed. Dennis found his purpose and grew roots when he fell in love with Joyce Lorraine (Lawler) and married her on August 14th, 1965. Together, they raised four children, and built a house that was home to many beyond its walls. Dennis worked tirelessly to provide for his family, and was a source of stability for many others. Dennis and Joyce celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary this year, just two weeks before his death and they danced. Dennis was recognized amongst those who knew him for his integrity, loyalty, and technical genius with an ability to solve nearly any problem that came his way. His friends from childhood claimed he completely built the electrical system of a car at the age of twelve, and earlier created pulley system 'machines' to do everything from feeding the dog to hauling coal from the alley to the basement. He was a lifelong learner and an early adopter of all types of new technology. Dennis also had a big heart, and a properly prickly exterior to keep it from being too obvious. He could not pass a stray animal without an attempt to bring it home. Dennis loved all animals, and kept a menagerie while his kids were growing up ducks, rabbits, chickens, ponies, dogs and cats. As a secret tree hugger, he also had a deep love of the land, and was forever planting, tending and harvesting. He is survived by his wife, Joyce; their four children, Michael D. Wood, Martin L. Wood, Dene W. (Jerry) Nichols, and Danielle M. Wood (Bert Dodds); and six grandchildren, Ryan and Megan Wood, Evann, Aaron, and Lauren Nichols, and Ariel Dodds. Also surviving are his sister, Alanna, her children, Denise, Dana and Stacey; and his brother's wife, Jean, and their children, John, Laurie, Pam, Patrick, Paula and Penny. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, brother, and stepfather, Rev. H. Paul Smith. Dennis has chosen to donate his body to medical research, with Zahoran Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements for this and the celebration. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am Saturday, August 29th, 2015, in Westminster Presbyterian Church at 1501 Cleveland Road, South Bend, with open gathering beginning at 10:00 am. A reception will follow from 12:30 to 3:00 pm for old friends, new friends, and family at 133 Wakewa Avenue, South Bend. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church.

10/26/2021 JFC



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