Kenneth Ray Wood
DOB – November 23, 1948
Born – Dunedin, FL
Age – 75
Corporal – U.S. Marine Corp.
Resident of Pinellas Park, Florida
Ken is the son of the late Paul Oneal Wood and Barbara (Galloway) Wood
Died – February 28, 2024
At Aspire of Sand Key nursing facility, Clearwater, FL
(After a lengthy illness)
Ken is survived by his brother, Robert Wood (Sue), Birmingham, AL; his sister, Melanie Wetzel (Jack) New Port Richey, FL., along with three nieces, Erica, Stephanie (Danny) and Allison (Scott), one nephew, Matthew (Jenny), six great nieces, Cadence, Reese, Ryan, Quinn, Ryann and Allie, two great nephews, Gavin and Blake, Ken’s best friend of 65 years, Randall Pike and many loving friends.
Ken attended Dunedin High School, graduating in 1966 and enlisting along with a few friends in the U.S. Marine Corps.
Ken served with distinction as a Marine in Vietnam and was recognized for his honorable service with several medals, including a Bronze Star for his heroic achievement in connection with operations in the Republic of Vietnam while serving as an Ontos Tank Commander. Upon the Marines’ arrival in the area, they suddenly came under intense enemy fire and were pinned down. Understanding the seriousness of the situation, Ken maneuvered his Ontos and delivered continuous suppressive fire upon the advancing enemy, providing effective cover for the beleaguered unit, until all of his ammunition was expended. Further, upon observing three wounded Marines, Ken directed his Ontos to the side of the casualties and evacuated them to a position of relative safety. As family and friends can attest, the discipline and patriotism he learned in the Marines never left him.
After his time in Vietnam, Ken returned to Florida, specifically the Miami area, entering into the Insurance industry. He relocated to Pinellas County and worked for many years at Jerger & Sons Inc. in Operations, and Adjuster for the Mobile Home Division in the State of Florida. Upon retiring from the insurance industry, being a motorcycle enthusiast, Ken began selling Harley Davidson motorcycles.
Ken always stayed involved in local Marine events and other local charity causes, including participation in the annual kid’s toy drive with other motorcyclists.
Thank you to the Staff at Aspire Sand Key nursing facility for taking care of Ken.
Although Ken is gone and there is a void that can never be filled, he will be in our hearts forever. The family deeply appreciates your support during this time and asks that In lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Wounded Warriors Foundation.
Service will be held on Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 11:00 am, at Bay Pines Cemetery.
RIP my friend.
Condolences and peace to his family and good friends.
What a beautiful remembrance of Kenny’s life and service to his country. Prayers for you, Rob, and the whole family.
Woody was a good friend to me as we played softball together for many years. I looked up to him as he was a mentor. I felt very sad upon seeing that he has passed but those times will remain in my heart. God Bless.
Kenny was a great friend and went to elementary, jr high and high school with him. Since his last name was a W and mine was a W, we were always in the same home room ieach year. He will be missed and only say that I have been blessed to be in his life for many years. Great Service at the VA and glad two see other classmates there along with One of Kenny’s great friend Beverly Cartwright RIP