John “Jack” Peter Wood

July 9, 1937- May 29, 2024
John Peter Wood, affectionately known as Jack, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2024, at the age of 86 in Basin, Wyo. Born in Minnesota, Jack’s journey through life was one marked by service, love, and unwavering dedication to his community.
He was born in Graceville, Minn., on July 9, 1937, to Frank Paul and Hazel Clara (Finke) Wood.
Jack’s childhood took him from the plains of Minnesota to the rugged landscapes of Wyoming, where he settled in Casper in his early years. After graduating from Natrona High School, he felt the call of duty and enlisted in the Navy, serving as a dental technician for two years. It was during his service that he met the love of his life, Virginia Darlene Rickabaugh in the shipyards of Washington, where their love story began—a love that lasted a lifetime.
Following his military service, Jack and his beloved wife embarked on a journey across the country, eventually returning to Casper, Wyo. There, he began his career with the postal service, starting from humble beginnings and steadily rising through the ranks until he became the postmaster at the Basin Post Office, a role he held until his retirement at the age of 55.
Never one to sit idle, Jack filled his retirement years with myriad activities and passions. He embraced the role of a mechanic, worked with the cable company, and found particular joy as a school activity bus driver. In his late 50s, he discovered a love for golf, a sport that became a cherished pastime and source of camaraderie for him.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Jack was deeply committed to serving his community. He was an active member of the American Legion, a dedicated volunteer firefighter and a pillar of support at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Whether tending to the church grounds or lending a helping hand to those in need, Jack’s generosity and kindness knew no bounds.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents; loving wife, Virginia Wood; son, David Wood; brothers, Joe (Evelyn) Wood and Tom (Pat) Wood; sister, Mary (Neal) Schlager and sister-in-law Peggy Wood.
He is survived by his children, Deborah “Debbie” (Steve) Orso of Casper, Wyo., Dale Wood of Casper and Dennis (Zully) Wood of Houston; brother, Mike Wood of Casper; grandchildren: Stephanie (Josh), Cassie (Dave), Michelle (Conner), Kayla (Diamond), Sally, Amanda (Andrew), Michael, Kelsey (Corrin), Kylee (Gilbert) and Zhara; great-grandchildren: Jessica, David, Hunter, Carlie, Marley, Malaki, Macoby, Matteo and many special neices and nephews.
A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Clark officiating. Burial will follow at Mount View Cemetery in Basin, Wyo., with full military honors. Memorial donations may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church; please send checks to PO Box 524 Worland, Wyoming 82401. Online condolences may be made at www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.