Ivan "Frank" Franklin Wood, Jr.

Ivan "Frank" Franklin Wood Jr., born on December 2, 1937, in Tucson, Arizona, to Ivan Franklin Wood Sr. and Verda Lee Keith, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. Frank lived a life of devotion, service, and love, leaving a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Frank grew up with his parents and four siblings—Walter, Sharon, Bob, and Tom—in Douglas/Elfrida, Arizona. After serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Central America Mission, Frank met the love of his life, Velma Kay Merrill, in St. David, Arizona. They were married on June 1, 1962, in the Mesa Arizona Temple, sharing 62 beautiful years together. Shortly after their marriage, Frank was drafted into the U.S. Army and bravely served his country overseas during the Vietnam War. He proudly wore his Vietnam Veterans hat and made it a point to thank any veteran or enlisted soldier he encountered.

Faith was central to Frank’s life. He and Kay served together on several church missions, including in the Tombstone and Sunsite, Arizona Branches, and at the Mesa Arizona, Gila Valley, and Snowflake Temples. His commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ was unwavering, and he instilled values of hard work, service, and self-reliance in his children and grandchildren.

Affectionately known as "Pancho," Frank had a passion for speaking Spanish, striking up conversations with anyone who shared the language—and even with those who didn’t. His kindness and warmth ensured he never met a stranger. Frank was often found behind the controls of his beloved backhoe, tinkering in his “treasure-filled” yard, or cheering on his children and grandchildren at their various sporting events and activities. He was their biggest fan, always quick to express his pride and love for his family, who were his entire world.

Frank is survived by his devoted wife, Velma Kay, their eight children: Shalene (Wayne) Winterton, Michael (Jennie), Gerald (Tawnya), Andrew (Karen), Gina (Jamie) Grandpre, Cyrena (Dale) Hansen, Velda Wood, and Donna (Ben) Hipps, as well as thirty-two grandchildren and thirty great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Walter (Bernie), Bob (Lou), Sharon Wood, and Thomas (Kathy). His absence will be deeply felt, but the love and lessons he shared will live on forever.

Frank's life was one of service, family, and faith—a true example of a life well-lived.

There will be a viewing at Temple View Chapel 11 am - 11:45 am on Saturday, September 28, 2024 followed by the funeral at 12 pm.  Interment will follow at the Reed Hatch Memorial Cemetery in Taylor, Arizona.

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