Chris "Dog" William Wood

In Loving Memory of Chris “Dog” Wood

August 19, 1961 - December 8, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Chris Wood. Chris, a kind-hearted and generous soul, left a mark on the lives of all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Chris was born on August 19, 1961, in La Crosse, WI, and graduated from Winona Senior High in 1979. He attended Winona Area Technical School studying agricultural and graduated in 1981. He married Nancy (Jonsgaard) Wood in 1982 and they later divorced. Chris and Nancy had one daughter together, Mandy.

Chris lived a life full of cherished memories and meaningful connections. He had a deep love for the great outdoors and could often be found enjoying his favorite pastimes, such as fishing with his adored grandsons or hunting and trapping. Chris shared a special bond with his neighbor, Doug Nopar, as they spent countless hours together, cutting wood and watching each other's homes. Chris also enjoyed cutting wood with his grandson, Frank, and son-in-law, Hunter. Frank and Chris always enjoyed ice cream or McDonalds after a hard day’s work. Chris spent many years working for his dear friend, Roger Roraff, at Cedar Valley Sod.

Known for his selflessness, Chris was always quick to lend a helping hand whenever someone was in need. He would jump up without hesitation and go out of his way to assist others. Whether it was feeding the pigs and sheep or tending to his beloved garden with his daughter and “partner-in-crime”, Mandy.

In his leisure time, Chris enjoyed watching his favorite television shows, "Gunsmoke" and "Alaska: The Last Frontier." He often went to Midtown Food and Fleet Farm, just to visit with people. Chris was known to enjoyed fancy meals in life, like prime rib, seafood, and roast with real mashed potatoes.

He is survived by his daughter, Mandy (Hunter) Merchlewitz; grandchildren, Frank, Allie, Bennett, Andrew, and Kate; sister, Kay (Bruce) Wood-Norton; nephew, Eric (Danae) Norton and his children Tyse and Jase; and nephew, Adam (Molly) Norton.

He was preceded in death by his mom, Agnes; father, Melvin; sisters, Debra Wood, Beth Wood, and Mary-Jo Fitzgerald; brother-in-law, Jim Fitzgerald; and several aunts and uncles.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023, at 1pm at Hoff Celebration of Life Center (3480 Service Dr. Goodview, MN) with visitation beginning at 11am.