Winthrop W. Wood's Obituary
Big Rapids - Winthrop W. (Woody) Wood, 85, passed away Thursday, August 31, 2023, at his home.
He was born September 8, 1937, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Robert G. and Elnora M. (Wahl) Wood. Woody grew up in Morenci, Michigan, where he also attended school. Upon graduation, he joined the US Army and served from 1957-1958.
He started his career at United Parcel Service in 1960, where he progressed from package delivery to driving semis to regional supervisor. He retired in 1991 to Big Rapids to enjoy the nature and serenity of his beloved property. Woody loved to watch his regular visitors of birds, deer, turkeys, and the occasional bear. Some of his hobbies included maintaining his property, hunting, NASCAR, visiting Las Vegas, and driving his motorcycle and Corvette.
Woody's journey through life instilled in him a profound commitment to Alcoholics Anonymous and he maintained his own sobriety one day at a time by working the steps for over 37 years. He supported many in his AA family on their own journeys through counseling at the local jail each week, attending many meetings and gatherings, and being a mentor and sponsor to those on the road to recovery.
Woody was especially proud of his children, and he loved his family without reservation. He is survived by his sons, Brad Wood of Hudson, MI, and Bruce Wood (Elena) of Plainwell, MI; his daughter, Julie Wetherby (Larry) of Brooklyn, MI; four granddaughters, Angela Wetherby (James), Bethany Dunigan (Charlie), Emily Wood, and Sheridan Wood; four great grandchildren; and his sister, Janice Grob of Wayne, PA. He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters, Hazel Neblo, Mary Miron, and Gladys Bauer. A special thanks to Robert, who was a treasured friend who helped him for many years.
Per Woody's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral. Instead, please consider donating in his memory to the Mecosta-Osceola United Way. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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