SHERIDAN - Cremation has taken place and memorial services for Sheridan resident Gene E. Wood, 79, will be conducted at 3 p.m. today at Elks Lodge No. 520 in Sheridan.

He died Nov. 28, 2001, at Westview Health Care Center.

He was born March 22, 1922, in Sheridan, the son of Elzie B. and Gertrude (Jansen) Wood.  He graduated from Sheridan High School.

>From 1942 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II as a crew chief of fighter planes, mainly in the South Pacific.

On April 2, 1947, he married Francellia Helvey at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Sheridan.

An excellent cowman, he dedicated most of his life to ranching.

He served on the ASCS board and was a life member of Elks Lodge 520.   He enjoyed his family, ranch life, animals and celebrations with friends.

Survivors include his wife of Sheridan; son, Philip B. Wood and his wife of Birney, Mont.; two daughters, Trudy G. Kittelmann of Cave Creek, Ariz., and Marcie F. Wood of Pawnee City, Neb.; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brother, Bruce J. Wood of Sheridan; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Richard G.; and sister, Fern.

Memorials may be made to the Elks Club Building Fund, Birney 4-H Club or a charity of the donor's choice, in care of Delphine Toner, First Interstate Bank, PO Box 2007, Sheridan 82801.

Kane Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.