Apr 21, 1942 - Nov 25, 2015

Vernon Harvey Wood, Jr., loving husband, brother, and uncle, passed away at age 73 following a three-year battle with bladder cancer. 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 and 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 and volunteered at the Douglas County Historical Society and Archives, St. Vincent DePaul Society, and the Omaha Visitor Center. 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 and worked on-air at KQAL-FM. He owned and boarded horses for many years and enjoyed riding in Shrine parades. He loved music and played the trumpet in high school and college. Vern married the love of his life, Joan Baillon Wood, 44 years ago in Omaha. 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 WEST CENTER CHAPEL 7805 W. Center Rd. 402-391-3900 www.heafeyheafey.com