Joseph "Joe" Edward Wood

On a cold, windy day, on February 28, 1948, in Elgin, Illinois, Joseph Edward Jonson-Wood was born to Wanda Miller Jonson Wood and Edward Jonson and lovingly adopted by Charles F. Wood. 

Joe passed peacefully at Reid Hospital, in Richmond, Indiana, surrounded by his loving family on the evening of January 30, after a brief illness.  

After spending his early years growing up in areas outside of Chicago, Illinois, Joe moved with his family to Union City in 1962.  Joe displayed his love for Union City by growing into a community leader and was always willing to help anyone in need. 

After graduating Union City High School in 1966, Joe attended Ball State University before deciding to serve his country in the United States Marine Corp, with his friend Jonathan L. Stoops.  Joe served 13 months in Vietnam and was honorably discharged as a Lance Corp.  His unwavering love of country continued throughout his life. 

Following his service with the Marines, Joe moved back home and married Linda (Mayfield) Wood on April 8, 1972.  He then began his pathway of becoming a regionally respected electrician.  Joe’s early career was spent with Indiana & Michigan Electric Company, spending tireless hours and stormy nights ensuring service was provided for our communities. Few enjoyed climbing electric poles, working out of bucket trucks, no matter the weather, as much as Joe. 

After 13 years at I&M, Joe, along with the support of Linda, opened Wood Electric, and ran a successful business for over 35 years. Joe demonstrated true dedication to his community through countless selfless acts.  Without hesitation, Joe would prioritize hanging the Christmas lights through downtown Union City, replacing and repairing lights for the little league park and the football field, and giving his time to local non-profit organizations.  Joe's commitment to his community extended to new and established businesses, while stepping forward in energy by programming and maintaining wind turbine towers.  Joe was also a member of Union City’s American Legion, Jonathan L. Stoops VFW and Randolph County Art Association. 

Joe’s greatest devotion was to Linda and their sons, Tyson and Eric.  After long days of work, Joe never missed an event that allowed him to either support, coach, cheer, laugh or simply be present at events.  Any chance he got to be with “Linda and the boys”, Joe would drop everything to give his time and love.  He was a truly dedicated husband and father, not to mention brother, son, nephew, uncle and friend.  

In retirement, Joe’s time was spent with his dog Maggie, tagging along with Linda on trips and errands and including visiting with his sons.  Joe showed us all how to be committed to community, compassionate to others and was the true definition of the word dedicated.  Join us in celebrating Joe’s life with a bag of concession stand popcorn or a cold one.  

Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 51 years, Linda (Mayfield) Wood and their two sons, Tyson Andrew Wood and Eric Michael Jonson Wood.  Also, survived by his sister, Marta Lyn (Jonson Wood) Read and brother Scott Frederick Wood, and their families.  In addition, Joe is survived by Linda’s family.  Joe’s love, loyalty and sense of humor were shared with all of his loved ones.

The Wood Family would like to thank the community for their love and support.  Please join us in celebrating Joe’s life on Sunday, February 5, 2023 from 2-5pm at Reichard Funeral Home for visitation. Funeral services will be Monday, February 6, 2023 at 2pm, also at Reichard Funeral Home.  Joe will be buried with military honors at Union City Cemetery.  Memorial donations on behalf of Joe can be sent to Pets Are Worth Saving (PAWS) of Union City, Indiana. 

Memories may be shared online at www.reichardfh.com.