Albert Bryan Wood Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away surrounded by the love of his family January 8.
His life began in the most humble of places— one-room cabin on a small farm near Peru, Kan., where he was born to Everett Wayne Wood and Velma Ada (Jacobus) Wood. His father delivered him while the doctor waited in his car listening to the radio, a story Albert loved to share. Though his mother always insisted he was born May 7, 1940, the doctor recorded the date as April 7, 1940.
When Albert later joined the Air Force, he was required to use the official date, but he never doubted his mother's memory. In true Albert fashion, he happily celebrated both dates, so long as ice cream was involved.
At age 10, Albert's family moved to a farm near Elgin, Kan. - years he often described as the best of his life. He spent his days riding horses, fishing, and embracing the freedom of country living.
Albert graduated from Sedan High School in Sedan, Kan., then joined a harvest crew that took him to Western Kansas. It was there he met the love of his life, Mary Lorane Gruver.
Albert enlisted in the United States Air Force December 2, 1962, and married Mary, October 24, 1963. Their devoted 62-year marriage brought two children into the world: Albert Bryan Wood Jr., born August 22, 1965, in Fairbanks, Alaska, and Molly Ann (Wood) Burgan, born March 20, 1969, in Syracuse, Kan.
Most of Albert's career was spent with Pioneer Telephone Company, where he worked many dedicated years. After retiring, he continued serving his community through his work at Grant County Civic Center.
A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Albert found great joy in his calling as Mission Leader, especially in working with young missionaries. He also cherished his time as a member of the Ulysses Lions Club, where he became known for his excellent cooking and the meals he lovingly prepared for their meetings.
Albert proudly called himself a "Jack of All Trades," and it was true—he excelled at anything he set his mind to, whether building a house, running a dairy, or tending a garden. He was a man of remarkable intelligence, tireless work ethic, and unwavering honesty. His humble heart and deep integrity shaped every part of his life. Above all, he loved his family fiercely and held a special place in his heart for each of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Albert was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Velma Wood; brothers, Walter Lee Wood and Cecil Wood; sister, Nellie Ada (Wood) Reed; and great-grandson, Brett Edmond J. Phillips II.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Lorane (Gruver) Wood, Salina, Okla.; son, Albert Bryan Wood Jr., Joplin, Mo.; daughter, Molly Ann (Wood) Burgan, Salina, Okla.; brother, George Perry Wood, Glen Burnie Md.; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
Albert's life was one of service, love, and quiet strength. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the family who will forever cherish his memory.
Graveside services for Albert Bryan Wood Sr. will be at 2 p.m., Saturday, January 17, at Spavinaw-Strang Cemetery in Spavinaw, Okla. Services are entrusted to Stephens-Key Funeral Home in Pryor, Okla.
