Wayne was born Oct. 7, 1935 the son of Harold M. “Merlon” and Daisy Lee (Massey) Wood. He married Rita Hogarth in 1953 and she preceded him in death in 1994. He was also preceded in death by 2 brothers, Walter and Dale and a sister, Bonnie J. Lohr.
Wayne was the owner and operator of Wayne Wood Heating and Cooling for many years, an expertise he would pass down to his sons. He later became a stationary engineer for the State of Illinois working at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield, retiring after 10 years of service.
A true outdoorsman, he was an avid hunter, fisherman, and loved to hunt mushrooms. He also enjoyed wood working. He found great joy spending time with nature, especially the time with family at the farm in Pike County. Above all, he loved his family and worked hard to provide for them. He had the heart of a teacher, whether it was giving advice and direction of life’s lessons, leading by example of a strong work ethic and building a reputation that his family can be proud of.
He was a member of Springfield Lodge #4 AF&AM, the Ansar Shrine, Springfield Consistory, Scottish Rite, and the Royal Order of Jesters. He was also a member of the Sangamon County Farm Bureau and the NRA.
Surviving are his children: Cindy Hopkins, of Springfield, Steve (companion Venetia Schnapp) Wood of Chatham, Diana (companion Frank McGowan) Mohr of Springfield, Mike (wife Shelly) Wood of Loami, Shelly Bayha of Battle Creek, MI, Darrin (wife Tonya) Wood of New Berlin, and Curt Wood of Chatham. There are 18 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Cremation Rites will be accorded by the Bisch Crematory.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 am Friday, July 27, 2018 in Roselawn Memorial Park. Rev. John Hayes will officiate. A celebration of life will be held at a date to be announced at the family farm in Pike County.
n lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Central Illinois Food Bank 1937 E. Cook St. Springfield, IL 62703 or the Catch a Dream Foundation 2485 Ennis Rd. Starkville, MS 39759.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.bischfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home 544-5424
