Paul Andrew Wood

Paul was born to Edwin & Catherine (Van Leuvenhage) Wood on June 27, 1956 in Detroit, MI. Paul was incredibly close with his five siblings and, despite being the youngest, Paul was always their protector, cheerleader, and voice of comfort in hard times. These qualities extended beyond his brothers and sisters, as Paul had a unique and special ability to connect with each person he met, taking genuine interest in their lives even if only a momentary encounter.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Paul pursued a career in law enforcement and was hired onto Livonia Police Department as a cadet at the age of 18 on May 5, 1975. Paul was sworn in as an officer in August of 1978. Paul dedicated his life to public service and he impacted the lives of countless officers and members of the community through his empathy and compassion.

As a young man, Paul was introduced to the beauty of Great Lakes while on a scuba trip with a dear and lifelong friend. Thus began his passion for and appreciation of the lakes and the mighty freighters that traverse them. We are grateful to the Interlake Steamship Company, specifically the captain and crew of the Paul R. Tregurtha, who gave Paul the experience of a lifetime through their kindness and hospitality.

Paul met the love of his life, Diane, in Livonia, MI and they were married on October 21, 1978 at St. Colette. Their home was always full of love and laughter; whether it was Sunday dinners with family, watching his beloved Notre Dame football team with his sons and brother Ray, or pizza nights with friends and a Red Wings game.

After retirement, Paul and Diane moved to Charlevoix, MI where they were blessed to meet many dear friends and host numerous friends and family from “downstate”. Paul adored his grandchildren and enjoyed taking day trips with them to some of his favorite Northern Michigan spots, specifically on and around Lake Superior. Paul enjoyed volunteering as a lector at St. Mary’s Church and sharing his time praying and talking with residents of American House. Paul had a deep and unwavering faith that gave him strength to persevere despite his pain.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Raymond, whom Paul loved dearly and who he considered his hero. Paul is survived by his wife Diane and children and grandchildren, who he was infinitely proud of: daughter Christina (Greg) Alcala and granddaughters Gabriella, Juliet, and Adrianna; son Paul (Jessica) Wood and grandson Rowan; son James (Jennifer) Wood and grandchildren Natalie, Matthew, and Jacob.

Friends may visit on Thursday, July 2, 2020 at Harry J. Will Funeral Home 37000 West Six Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. On Friday, July 3, 2020, visitation continues from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Aidan's Catholich Church 17500 Farmington Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors (Mi-COPS). P.O. Box 627, Hartland, Michigan 48353 (www.micops.org).

Please share a memory of Paul or condolences with his family at his online guest book below.