We Remember

UPDATED SERVICE INFO: WOOD, Sydney

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Colonel, The Honorable Judge, Sydney Evan William James Wood, CD, QC peacefully passed away on November 7th, 2022, in Kelowna at age 89. Born January 25, 1933, in Edmonton, Alberta and adopted by loving parents Sydney Wood and Phoebe Maude Wood (Reilly). Raised with sister Elizabeth Jane in Edmonton and Calgary. Educated in Edmonton schools, he entered the Canadian Services College Royal Roads in September 1950 as a cadet in the Royal Canadian Airforce. He obtained his BA in 1953 and his LLB from University of Alberta in 1956. Syd was an active member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity and spent summers continuing his training as a pilot with the Airforce Reserves. He joined the 418 City of Edmonton Squadron RCAF in August 1954 and was the wing commander of the search and rescue squadron.

Syd joined his father’s firm Wood, Haddad, Moir, Hyde & Ross and was admitted to the bar in 1957. His practice included land consolidation, rezoning, building design & construction, home and building financing. Prior to joining the Provincial Court of Alberta Youth and Family Division 1993 he was a partner with McCuaig Desrochers. He sat in the Edmonton and Calgary courts between 1993 and 2003.

In March 1960 Sydney married his partner for life, Frances Marguerite Wood. Together they raised 3 children; Lindsay (Tony Blackner), Wendy (Carson Damm) and Sydney (Barbara Wood).  Sydney was predeceased by his daughter Wendy. Sydney and Frances hiked hundreds of miles of beautiful Canadian mountains together with friends and family, travelled all over the world, and entertained many in their homes in Edmonton and Kelowna. His favourite reply to any question asked by his whining children on the endless hiking trails was a cheerful “just around the corner.”  Sydney has 4 grandchildren; Reily Blackner, Evan Wood, Bronwyn & Emma Damm.

In his 70’s Syd became interested in discovery information about his birth mother.  He has been thrilled to get to know his younger brother Larry Wood, his sisters Betty Shaw and Patricia Martin. He was sad to have missed meeting Robert Dagg by just 6 months.

Syd enjoyed golfing, skiing, backpacking, hiking, badminton, carpentry, playing bridge, puzzle building, playing card and board games and singing with St. Mary’s choir in Kelowna. He and Frances travelled extensively, well into their 80s. Their spirit of adventure has inspired their children and grandchildren to continue this legacy of learning about the bigger world. Syd was a kind and generous person who gave of himself in so many ways. Always willing to lend a thoughtful ear, make home improvements on his children’s homes and help others in need by volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. His presence will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Nature Conservancy of Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society.

A Celebration of Life will be held to honour Sydney on Saturday, November 12, 2022, at 2:00 pm (PST), at St. Mary’s Anglican Church (2710 E Kelowna Rd, Kelowna, BC).

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

Service
Saturday, November 12, 2022, at 2:00 pm (PST)

Location
St. Mary's Anglican Church

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The Nature Conservancy of Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society Link: natureconservancy.ca, cancer.ca

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for UPDATED SERVICE INFO: WOOD, Sydney is scheduled for Saturday, November 12, 2022, at 2:00 pm (PST). Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

St. Mary's Anglican Church

2710 E Kelowna Rd Kelowna, BC

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

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Condolences

  • Marilyn Yakiwchuk says:
    November 8, 2022 at 4:19 pm

    Frances and Family. I’m so sorry for the loss of Syd. Enjoyed getting to know him and help him find the puzzle pieces. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Marilyn (your cleaning lady)

    Reply
  • Sharon Brintnell says:
    November 11, 2022 at 7:21 am

    Dear Frances and family,
    The Brintnell family extend our heartfelt condolences to you all on Syd’s passing. The early years had many shared events and connections in “town “ and at the lake. It was good to see him at the Faculty Club as we celebrated a Mustard birthday. Syd was so accomplished and a man for all seasons. Fondly Sharon and Bob Brintnell

    Reply
  • Ronald Henry Schmiemann says:
    November 13, 2022 at 2:36 pm

    Wood Family

    It is with deep remorse that we belatedly learn that Wing Commander Syd has “slipped the surly bounds of earth.” On behalf of all members of 418 Squadron, our sincere condolences to family and Syd’s countless friends and comrades. His Air Force service and achievements are well known and speak for themselves. However, for us he was perhaps most appreciated as an Officer, a Gentleman, and a perceptive leader. A model of integrity, modesty and caring for those under his command. A fine gentleman. humble, kind and always a warm smile. He had a keen aptitude to encourage those around him positively and for them to grow personally. To Syd, people always came first, especially family. For sure the heavens have gained a star.

    Per Ardua ad Astra

    Ron Schmiemann
    Director 418 SQN Association

    Reply
  • Rick and Bev Inglis says:
    December 17, 2022 at 5:39 pm

    We were lucky to get to know Syd and Frances when we were neighbours on ‘The Pinnacle’ and have only just heard about Syd’s passing. We could not be more sad. Syd was the very epitome of the good neighbour – always willing to help; to provide wise advice; or just share a funny story. We will miss him a lot.
    Heartfelt condolences to Frances and the entire family.

    Rick and Bev Inglis

    Reply

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