Gale Wood

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gale Wood, with her family by her side, at home in Woodstock on May 15, 2024, at the age of 81.  

Throughout her cancer journey, she exemplified remarkable bravery, always facing each challenge with a smile on her face.  She taught those around her what it means to live courageously, maintaining her quiet dignity and sense of humor, even until the end.

Gale was born in Woodstock, Ontario, to Thelma and Clint Kennedy on May 5, 1943.  She was a loyal wife to Kenneth for 65 years. She was preceded in death by her daughter Angela, sisters Pat, Darlene, Barb, and brother Fred.  Gale is survived by her husband Kenneth, children Caroline, Marie (Mike), Kathleen (Greg), Kenneth (Becky), ten grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and sister Linda (Gary).  She is also survived by many sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and several nieces and nephews.

Gale taught herself many activities over the years, such as cooking, baking, sewing, knitting, and gardening.  She took great pleasure in trying out new recipes that she found on the internet.  

She designed patterns to make her own clothes, knit socks, and could be relied on to make Halloween costumes for her grandchildren.  She taught herself how to install tiles when the bathroom needed an upgrade.  She enjoyed bowling and golfing as well as exercise class at her church.   

Occasionally, she and Ken might be caught at the casino.

What Gale enjoyed most was spending time with family, where good food and laughter were abundant. There was always annual anticipation for the gift of “Mom’s Christmas baking” that included a variety of different treats. 

Gale’s memory will live on through her family, whose lives have been blessed by her love and support.

Gale was grateful for all the genuine concern and support that she received over the past year from Dr. Andersen-Kay and nurse Debbie; Dr. Stewart and Staff at the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre; Dr. Regis and Staff with the Oxford Palliative Care Outreach Team; Dr. Thomas with the MAID program; Pharmacists and Staff at Pharmasave Huron St.; Home Care and Community Services, and Kizzy from St. Elizabeth Health Care for her exceptional nursing care.

We would like to thank everyone for all the kind words, cards, food, and prayers during mom’s illness.  

A special thank you to Deacon Shirley of the Church of the Epiphany for giving Mom her final communion.

A time of sharing and celebration of Gale’s life will be held on Sunday May 26, 2024, from 2 to 4 pm in the Social Room at 800 Chieftain Street Apartment building, Woodstock, Ontario.  

If desired, please consider making a donation to a charity close to your heart.  

Please consider sharing a memory and/or picture of remembrance or condolence at wareingcremation.ca   

Wareing Cremation Services, 225 Norwich Ave., Woodstock was entrusted with Final Arrangements.