Karl Duane Wood

Karl Duane Wood, a great man of integrity and honored veteran of the United States Army, serving in the Vietnam War, passed away on April 1, 2022. A man of common sense and uncommon wisdom, his quick wit provided a smile to all. After living a full life of adventures, hard work, and love, we celebrate his legacy. Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan in January of 1944 to Harry J. and Johanna (Aukes) Wood. One of three siblings, he was preceded in death by Louis Henrickson and survived by Janet Witt. Karl worked various careers before finding one in which he could provide for his family and in which he was satisfied.

In 1966, Karl married Mary Ann Chomic, the love of his life. Karl and Mary Ann remained husband and wife for 56 years, she survives him. Karl provided great opportunities for his three children who survive him, Greg (Kimberly) Wood of Ohio, Mike Wood of Southgate, and Jodi (Christopher) Bailey of Swartz Creek. Among his accomplishments, Karl participated as a scout leader for his sons’ Boy Scouts and never missed a basketball game of his daughter’s.

His passion for woodworking led him to create many beautiful heirlooms for his sons’ children. Karl was blessed with many grandchildren, who meant the world to him. Surviving him are grandchildren, Michael Wood Jr., Kayla (Mark) Gordon, Maggie (Adam Cain) Wood, Alexander Wood, Carissa Wood, Ruben Bailey, Al Bailey, and Kevin Volesky. He took pride in watching his grandchildren grow and succeed. Karl was preceded in death by daughter-in-law Kathleen “Katie” Wood and by his faithful companion Rusty. They are now reunited on their next journey.

Karl had many passions and pursuits throughout his life. He enjoyed camping and traveling exploring many states with friends and family, always humbled by many of God’s great creations. He was passionate about life being given an opportunity of being an organ recipient he grabbed life and lived everyday golfing, playing guitar, enjoying nature at the log cabin house in the woods that he shared with his wife and watching the birds flitter and fly, feeding off his many bird feeders. Karl enjoyed conversing with people and playing cards, somehow always winning. He wrote and recorded a song about his wonderful log house in the woods entitled, “Sitting on the Porch,” reflecting upon everything God provided.

His infectious laugh will be missed. His smile lit up the room as well as his strong handshakes and enveloping hugs that always made you feel loved and respected. He has made many friends that he loved and they loved him like the wonderful family he had. Many of them will welcome him into the next phase while many of us will mourn the loss of what we had with him.

The family wishes to thank the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center for the excellent care, wonderful treatment and honor that was given to him. Additionally, the family would like to thank the Cleveland Clinic for giving Karl a second lease on life in 2009.

Memorial Liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 7, 2022 at St. Dominic Parish, SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 4735 W. Michigan Avenue, Saginaw, Michigan 48638. Rev. Fr. Steve Gavit will officiate. Military Honors will take place under the auspices of the United States Army and American Legion Post 22. Burial will take place at a later date at Great Lakes National Cemetery. Friends may visit the family from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service on Thursday at the church.

In keeping with his wishes, please consider being an Organ Donor. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center or the Alzheimer Association are appreciated.