Larry Wood
Dorsey |
Larry Dean Wood, 74, of Dorsey, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at his residence with his family by his side. His little body grew tired, and he went to be with the Lord.
He was born in Meadowbrook on December 17, 1950, and was adopted in 1954 by LeRoy and Irma Wood of Cottage Hills.
Larry married the love of his life, Vickie Stinekraus, in 1972. She survives, after 53 wonderful years of marriage.
A 1969 graduate of Civic Memorial High School, Larry went on to trade school and dedicated 52 years to his craft as a cement finisher. He also became a skilled welder and proudly operated his own welding shop in Cottage Hills for 50 years. A man of many talents, Larry earned his pilot's license and loved to fly.
Larry had a passion for the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting with his son Joe and grandson Brandon - both of whom got their first deer while hunting by his side. His granddaughter also had the opportunity to hunt with him, creating cherished memories. Larry took great pride in the property he purchased in Dorsey, where he built his family home and a lake, hosting many fishing outings and unforgettable fish fries.
More than anything, Larry loved his family. He treasured time spent with his grandchildren, especially during the holidays. Known for his belief in "buying the best - or at least the best you could afford," he passed that value on to his son and grandson. A steak dinner was among his favorite pleasures.
In addition to his beloved wife, Vickie, Larry is survived by his children, Joseph Dean (Lisa) Wood and Cassy Lynn (Pat) Wood Kelly; his grandchildren, Brandon Drake “Boo” (Jaidyn) Kelly, Mallory Lynn (Logan) Kelly, Jacob Hunter (Jaidyn) Wood, and Katie Jo (Charlie) Wood; and a great-grandchild, Jensen Wood.
He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Claudette Eatman; and brother-in-law, Willis (Paula) Diuguid; and many nieces and nephews: Lisa (Sam) Darr, Erin (Todd) Watson, Steve (Susie) Eatmon, Kimmy (Cyril) Carag, Kelly (Darrell) Warren, Jeff, Becky, and Mandy Diuguid; as well as several cousins. He will be dearly missed by his lifelong friend, Terry Dale.
He was preceded in death by his parents; five sisters, Shirley (Fred) Bright, Mae Jenkins, Ethyl (Joe) Lewis, Belva Gwillam, and Carolee Diuguid; three brothers, Connie Cross, Harley Hildreth, and Marvin Eatmon.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Masonic Rites at 10:30 am by Bethalto Masonic Lodge 406 AF & AM where Funeral Services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m.
Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association, American Kidney Foundation, and/or the NRA.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
