Eldon Lee Wood Jr.

Eldon attended the DeWitt schools and excelled in all his classes. At his high School graduation, he was honored with a Certificate for Perfect Attendance.

After graduation, Eldon left the family home and worked in the service industry. He met Fred Diamond, who became a close friend and family member. In the early 1980’s they moved to Hilo, Hawaii, and founded “Go Native Hawaii” a successful bed and breakfast business.

Eldon returned to Lansing, MI, in the mid 1980’s. He found employment at Burcham Hills Retirement Community where he worked in the Recreation Department. His quick wit and humor endeared him to the residents. At Burcham, Eldon coordinated game activities to assist residents, planned parties, and was the all-around director of fun! Eldon loved his job and found fulfillment in making people smile. As a result of his hard work and dedication, Eldon was honored with Employee of the Month.

Eldon was an excellent chess player and Scrabble master. He loved games and competition, enjoying backgammon, cards, and bingo as well, and he usually won his matches. He was also a talented stained-glass artist. During his time in Hilo, Eldon designed stained-glass window panels for St. Joseph Church.

Eldon loved animals; especially black cats. He owned several of them throughout the years. His “boys” Gomez and Murphy were lovingly spoiled by him.

Eldon easily made friends. He was funny, kind, and upbeat. He deeply loved his family and friends and brought warmth and joy to those around him. He was a resilient soul who overcame many health challenges over the years. We are blessed to have had him in our lives.

Eldon was preceded in death by his father Eldon Lee Wood, Sr.; mother Lorraine Wood; brother Rick Wood; and sister Leilani Wood Fogg. He is survived by his sister Lehua Beamon; brother Ronald Lona Wood; brother Steven (Terri) Wood; and brother Andrew Wood; along with many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews, and cousins.

A visitation for Eldon will be held Friday, October 9, 2026, from 12:30pm – 1:30pm at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 E. Grand River Ave. East Lansing, MI. A graveside service will follow at 2:00pm at Deepdale Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Capital Area Humane Society or charity of your choice.