Kenneth Melvin Wood

Kenneth Melvin Wood, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and patriot, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born on September 10, 1937, in Hobbs, New Mexico, Ken was a Friday’s child—loving and giving. He lived a life defined by perseverance, duty, loyalty, and respect.

The middle child of three, Ken was raised alongside his older brother Larry and younger sister Barbara Gaye, until later in life when his younger brother Stephen was born. From an early age, Ken understood the value of hard work. He spent his youth working as a roughneck and ranch hand before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1953 during the Korean War. While serving his country, Ken held several positions, including Combat Engineer, Motor Officer, and Armored Regiment Maintenance Officer, with deployments at Fort Carlton, Fort Knox, and overseas in Korea.

Following his honorable discharge in 1957, Ken continued working as both a ranch hand and roughneck in Colorado while actively competing in rodeo circuits as a roper, bull rider, and rodeo clown. It was during this time, in 1958, that fate brought him together with Mariann De Armitt at a Dude Ranch. A courtship through letters led to a heartfelt proposal, and the two were married on October 25, 1959. Their marriage of 66 years was filled with love, adventure, and unwavering commitment.

Ken and Mariann built a beautiful life together, raising three daughters—Jennifer, Rebecca, and Melissa—instilling in them the values of faith, strong morals, and perseverance. His career led the family to various places, including Nebraska, Indiana, Oklahoma, and ultimately Arizona. Ken worked tirelessly, holding positions as a gas line supervisor for NIPSCO, a police officer, and a deputy sheriff before moving into pipeline supervision and engineering roles. While in Owasso, Oklahoma, Ken was honored to serve as the city’s elected mayor.

An avid outdoorsman, Ken’s passion for hunting took him across the country, harvesting game and sharing his knowledge with others, especially his grandson, Mason. His love for firearms led him to a fulfilling role as a Range Master at Rio Salado, where he taught gun safety courses and continued his lifelong dedication to responsible gun ownership. A proud lifetime member of the NRA, Ken also enjoyed refurbishing firearms, making his own ammunition, and connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

In 2001, Ken retired but remained active, stepping in as a caretaker for his beloved grandson. He cherished every moment spent teaching Mason about hunting, history, and life itself. Even after experiencing a heart attack two years ago, Ken’s determination never wavered. He continued to push forward with his steadfast resilience and unwavering spirit.

Ken leaves behind a legacy of integrity, hard work, and love. His wisdom, humor, and devotion to his family will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew him.

A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on Thursday, March 20, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care, where family and friends will gather to honor his remarkable journey.

Though he has left this earthly life, his love, lessons, and legacy will live on in all those he touched.