Vernon H. Wood, Jr. Apr 21, 1942 – Nov 25, 2015 Vernon Harvey Wood, Jr., loving husband, brother, and uncle, passed away on November 25, 2015 at the age of 73 following a three-year battle with bladder cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon H. Wood, Sr. and Genevieve Calhoun Wood. He is survived by his wife, Joan Baillon Wood; sister, Nancy Wood Kracke (Al); brothers-in-law Jim Baillon (Sue), John Baillon (Lynn), Jeff Baillon (Sandy); nephews David Kracke (Jennifer), Adam Kracke (Jocelyn), Josh Baillon, Andrew Baillon (Amber); nieces Rachelle Baillon, Kate Baillon; two grandnieces and three grandnephews. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Vern graduated from Westside High School (Class of 1960) and the University of Omaha. In college, he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha Fraternity and Phi Mu Alpha music fraternity. He shared his passion for history with high school students in a career spanning 33 years, including 31 years at Omaha North High School. He was active in the state Social Studies Association, serving on the board and frequently judging the State History competitions. He volunteered at the Douglas County Historical Society and Archives. His interest in history ignited a personal journey into the genealogy of his own family, as well. Broadcasting was his avocation, working part-time in engineering and production at WOW-TV and KMTV. He was instrumental in putting the UNO campus TV station on the air, worked on-air at KQAL-FM, and taught a course in broadcasting at Omaha North High School. An animal lover, Vern owned and boarded horses for many years, enjoying riding in Shrine parades and around the farmstead. He was an intrepid crossword puzzle enthusiast, applying his sharp mind to the daily challenge. His lifelong love of music led him to the trumpet, an instrument he played in high school and college. Jazz and the Big Band sound topped his playlist throughout life. Vern married the love of his life, Joan Baillon Wood, 44 years ago in Omaha. He and Joni shared a love of travel, enjoying multiple trips to Europe as well as Minnesota and beyond to visit friends and family. Ever the Omaha boosters, Vern and Joan were regular volunteers at the Omaha Visitor Center, delighting in the opportunity to welcome visitors and helping them understand all that Omaha has to offer. Vern’s family thanks the staff at Lakeside Hospital, Montclair Rehabilitation Center, and Josie Harper Hospice Center for their efforts, kindness and compassion during these last difficult weeks. Those of us who love him say good-bye to a big heart, an amazing sense of humor, and a loving spirit. With his passing, “the world is a little bit less good and brave.” The family will receive friends Monday, Nov. 30th, from 5pm to 7pm at the West Center Chapel, followed by MASONIC SERVICE at 7pm by John J. Mercer Lodge #290, AF & AM. FUNERAL SERVICE Tuesday, Dec. 1st at 1pm at Dundee Presbyterian Church, 5312 Underwood Ave. Internment, Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Omaha North High Scholarship Fund, Omaha Home for Boys, or St. Vincent DePaul Society Food Pantry.
HEAFEY-HOFFMANN DWORAK & CUTLER Mortuaries and Crematories 7805 West Center Road Omaha, Nebraska 68124 (402) 391-3900
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