WOOD, Gary R. age 62 of Durand, passed away on Wednesday, March 9, 2011 following a brief battle with cancer.

Born on June 27, 1948 in Durand, the son of C.E. “Woody” Wood and Joan (Baxter), Gary graduated from Durand High School in 1966 and then went onto Northwood Institute to study Journalism until being drafted in 1969. He served his country from in the U.S. Army at Fort Campbell, KY as a cook until being honorably discharged in 1971. He returned home to help in the family business as a cook and owned and operated Herrick’s Restaurant working with his mother, Joan.

After selling the family business in 1977, Gary then worked for Shaw Services and Flint Vending Machine Company, retiring in 2010. He was a volunteer fireman with the Durand Fire Dept. in the 1970’s.

Gary was an avid sports fan with a great deal of knowledge of sports. His passion was the Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings.

Gary will be loved and missed by his sisters: Vicky (Rich) Cesar of Durand and Michelle (Steve) Whitney of Crystal; Nieces: Lesley and Lindsey of Durand, Chelsea of Crystal and nephew, Johnathon of Stanton. He is also survived by great nephews: Tyler and Blake, and great niece, Kaylie; step-sisters: Jan (Bill) Moyer, Laura (Tom) Misner and step-brother, Terry Summers.

He was preceded in death by his father, C.E. “Woody” Wood; mother, Joan Summers; step-brother, Jeff Summers; step-father, Roy Summers.

As per Gary’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private burial will be held at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Shiawassee Humane Society or Toys for Tots. Online condolences may be sent to the family by going to www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com