Michael L. Wood

Michael Lucien Wood, age 71, of Ogdensburg, NY, formerly of Carthage, NY, passed away Monday, October 28, 2024, at Samaritan Medical Center due to complications following surgery. A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, November 21, 2024, at Notre Dame Church at 1:00 PM. A reception will follow the Mass at the Knights of Columbus in Ogdensburg. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Fox & Murray Funeral Home.

Born on July 22, 1953, in Watertown, NY. Michael was the son of Margaret (Peggy) Martin. After graduating from Carthage Central School, he proudly served in the United States Army from 1971, working as a Medic at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. During his time in Hawaii, Michael was also played semi-professional football, showcasing his love for sports. He had additional medical training at Fort Ord, Ca. and Fort Hood, Tx.

Following his military service, Michael graduated from Jefferson Community College in Watertown, NY, earning an Associate’s Degree in liberal arts. He then worked as an EMT in California and Northern New York, where he later served as a traveling phlebotomist, conducting health screenings and blood work for insurance companies. Later he joined First Student as a bus driver, where he enjoyed connecting with the community.

On December 27, 2002, Michael married Mary Callahan Zelie at Notre Dame Church in Ogdensburg, NY, officiated by Rev. F. James Shurtleff. He was previously married to Karen Bevans. That union resulted in one son, Paul, who was the apple of Michael's eye, and brought great joy to him during his life.

Michael was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing and hunting. He also served as a NYS Hunter Safety instructor for firearms and archery. And he was a certified NRA pistol instructor. He cherished time spent with his grandchildren and remained a lifelong athlete until health challenges arose later in life. When possible, he followed the sports activities of his son (often coaching) and grandchildren.

Mr. Wood is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Wood of Ogdensburg; a son, Paul Wood and his wife Kim of Watertown, NY; his siblings: Kevin Wood and his wife Sue of Carthage, NY, Darla Crabbe – Whitney and her husband Andy of Phoenix, AZ, and Kathy Crabbe- Windey and her husband Bill of Casterland, NY. Michael’s grandchildren are Dana Chantel (husband Maximilian Townsend), Mackenzie Elizabeth, Patricia Margaret (companion Jadiel Feliciano) and Lucien Wood; There are also several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Ivan Wood and Margaret Martin; and his brothers, Robert Wood and Thomas Crabbe.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael's name to Ogdensburg Rescue Squad at P.O. Box 172, Ogdensburg, NY 13669.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com.