Obituary of Ronald Nelson Wood

August 15, 1942 – Midland, Ontario

January 17, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Family and friends across Canada are mourning the loss of Ronald Nelson Wood, who died peacefully in Calgary, AB on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at the age of 81 years.

Ron is predeceased by his father Harry Charles, his mother Irene Winnifred, and his older brother Harry Jr. His memory lives on with his wife of 56 years, Miki, children, Jennifer (Marc) and Michael (Natalie); grandchildren, Elliott and Bennett; brother Peter, sister Gay, and many nephews, nieces, and relatives across Alberta and Ontario.

Ron was born in Midland, ON, in August 1942, but headed west as a young boy with his family. He enjoyed riding horses on Nose Hill and exploring Southern Alberta, hunting its coulees, and fishing its streams, adventures that would inspire and feature prominently in his later stories. As a young man, Ron moved back east with that unique, dulcet voice and innate ability to tell a story that would launch a career in media and communications, first in Midland and then Ottawa (CKPM Radio, CJOH-TV, the Metric Commission of Canada), where he met many lifelong friends, including the woman he would marry.

When opportunity arose, Ron jumped at the chance to bring his family back to Calgary to assume the role of news director at CKXL Radio, where his punchy editorials would earn him national recognition and awards. He then put his principles and political savvy to use, working with Preston Manning and the Reform Party of Canada, barnstorming coffee shops and community halls in a movement that would transform the political landscape. He wore many hats with Reform, the Canadian Alliance, and the Conservative Party of Canada, where he was an appreciated mentor to many. Ron was also a celebrated author who penned several books, from a gourmet game cookbook to political satire that was shortlisted for the Stephen Leacock Award for Humour.

Ron was a political junkie, humorous and opinionated, and a skilled raconteur who delighted audiences, often over a beer or glass of wine in a pub. He was a hunter, a passionate Albertan, and a vocal advocate for the conservation of her wildlife. He was also a dedicated family man who loved gatherings and, in his later years, enjoyed poring over archives to paint a fuller picture of family history, tracing its roots through the centuries.

Ron (or Woody, as he was known to some) is missed by many colleagues, friends, and family. At his request, there will be no Funeral Service, but rather a Celebration of Ron’s Life well-lived to be held in Calgary this spring.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Agapé Hospice, 1302 - 8 Avenue N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1B8 Telephone: (403) 282-6588, or the hospice of your choice, in appreciation of the care he received there from kind and compassionate souls.

Ron’s voice and open-hearted opinions have left an indelible mark on us all and will not be forgotten.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Ronald’s family here.

In living memory of Ronald Wood, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-276-2296.