Robert Lyon Wood

Robert L. Wood, 81, of Clearwater, Florida, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2017 with his daughters by his side. He is predeceased by his wife, Joan of 51 years, and is survived by his children Elyse McKelvey (Dennis), Carrie Wood, and Christopher Wood (Sara). Bob was born on April 1, 1935 in Morristown, New Jersey to Howard and Natalie Wood. He lived in New Jersey most of his life until moving to Clearwater in 1981. He graduated from Roxbury High School, attended Columbia University, and spent two years in the U.S. Air Force. Highlights of Bob’s career include Mayor of Lacey Township, New Jersey in the 1970’s and Senior Operations Manager for Tampa International Airport. After retiring from TIA, Bob and his wife Joan starting a business (Clean Tech) where he was a consultant for multiple aviation authorities nationwide. Bob could be the life of the party or thoughtful and reflective. He also worked in sales, started a stone business, played classical piano in his youth, and was issued several patents. He had a quick wit, sharp blue eyes, and a special way of engaging with you when in conversation. He always went forward in life and never looked back. He was always learning and always trying to make the world better. Bob took risks. Some paid off, and some did not, but they made his life interesting and worth living. Bob’s wife, Joan, was the love of his life. They had many of the same interests including the theatre, the arts, travel, remodeling their homes, and of course, family. Their grandchildren were the light of their lives – Shawn McKelvey (Danielle), Christopher McKelvey, Kyle McKelvey, Nicole Wood, Vivian Wood, Eloise Wood, and Aria McKelvey (great granddaughter). Another fun pastime was taking a Sunday drive in Bob’s classic 1967 Chrysler 300 convertible. Bob and Joan travelled to many interesting places. The most memorable included a trip to Denmark hosted by family members in 1993. They also travelled to Norway, Hawaii, and to Ocean City, NJ for a family reunion to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Bob had many long-time friends including Ed and Marilyn Bennett, Joe and Lorraine Gordon, Ron and Mary Kay Lindquist, Bill and Cindy Rocknak, Mike and Marie Gruben, Michael and Susan Reed, Brent and Pat Mosher, Carol and Harold Butler, and Peg and Mike Tieman. The family would like to thank you for always being there for Bob and Joan.