Dennis Arlen Wood
February 19, 1942 - March 7, 2016
Obituary
Dennis Arlen Wood
Dennis Arlen Wood was born into this world on February 19, 1942, in Bellingham, Washington, to John William Wood and Helen Marie (Theisen) Wood. Dennis entered into eternal life on March 7, 2016 in his home in Kent, Washington. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Carol Ann Wood. Dennis is survived by his dear wife of 20 years, Charlotte Ann Smith-French Wood; brothers Nick (Judy) Wood of Longview WA, and Richard (Carla) Wood of Otis Orchard, WA; sisters Barbara Wood of Seattle, WA; Helen (Mike) Ferluga of Renton, WA; Teresa (Sam) Davis of Castle Rock, WA; Nancy (Rick) Kartevold of Spokane, WA; numerous nieces and nephews; step-daughter Stacey (Tim) French-Conners of Fremont, CA; step-sons Dr. Brian (Sarah) F. French of Murcia, Spain; Dr. Christopher (Kathy) J. French of Minneapolis, MN; eight grandchildren, many extended family and friends.
Dennis was a voracious reader of history and theology; loved traveling, football, golfing and basketball games; and attending opera with Charlotte. He dedicated 33 years of his life to being priest/pastor in the Archdiocese of Seattle. He completed the last renovation project of St. Philomena Parish and school in 1997, earning the coveted National Catholic Bishops Conference award for renovation of liturgical space. After retiring from active ministry, he worked for the Social Security Administration.
He has been active in St. John the Baptist Parish in Covington, WA for many years.
Dennis loved adventures in Seattle with the grandchildren, from the Big Wheel to Riding the Ducks to visiting the Aquarium, and always had a story or a joke for them. Coloring books, chalk paints, sea shells, playing dollies, and watching cartoons with grandpa were a must.
According to his sister Nancy “He was tired by the burden and pain of his body, and we truly believe his soul has found flight into the light and embraced by the Lord.”
A Memorial Mass will be held Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at 11:00am at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 25810 156th Ave SE, Covington, WA 98042, with a reception to follow. Burial will be in the Wood family plot in Longview Cemetery in Longview, WA.
Char reaches out to Dennis with this message: “Dennis was the gentlest, kindest soul. My best friend, my companion for the journey to our Christ, and the love of my life. Goodbye until we meet again, my love.”
Sad for your loss. He was a good person
Even though your journey on this earth is complete, the journey of eternity in the light has just begun…..
Blessings to you and your family. My prayers are with you. He sounds like someone I would have liked to know. What a full, beautiful life he led. I am so sorry for your loss.
We offered a rosary for Dennis when we heard of his death and we will continue to pray for him and all in his family.as life moves forward
May God, the Father of each of us, welcome him into His kingdom.
Dennis was the sweetest man. It was a joy and an honor for me to have known him for about 50 yrs. Gods love was always shining in Dennis’ face and his actions. He will be greatly missed but I am happy he is with the Lord now.
My prayers are with the Wood family. I was born and raised in Longview and attended St Rose…many visits to the Wood home. I always admired the faith and strength of this family.
O I am so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you always. He is at the end of his pathway to his new and wonderful home. Rest in peace.
My prayers are with your family.
Going to miss your boisterously lively personality. Your love for Char and all the memories. We love you Char! Prayers from your sis, and her hubby of twenty plus yrs. Remember Our individual wedding anniversary at Chris/Ruth. Then fireworks, compared to today we were so :, young ‘ and full of plans. We will love You forever Dennis and Char
God Bless!