Charles Richard Wood

Remembering the life, death and legacy of entrepreneur Charles Wood who passed away peacefully on July 20, 2021 at age 87.

Born in Middleboro, MA, he obtained his BS/BA Degree from Boston University, where he was President of Interfraternity Council and Treasurer of S.A.L.

Charles (AKA Charlie) had a hunger for business and dedicated his life to building Republic Packaging Corporation, which he founded in September of 1961, and served as President and Chairman of the Board since its inception. His brilliance, passion and energy were key to his many successful ventures.

Charles saw things that others didn't and worked to create solutions for customers problems, some of which they didn't even realize they had. He spent much of his time in leadership development, coaching and training to provide direction to his tenured leadership and sales teams whom he valued deeply. He was a humble leader who appreciated the dedication of each and every employee on his team.

Charles spent 41 wonderful years married to Roswitha Wood whom also worked with him at Republic Packaging Corp. as Vice President of Operations. They not only shared their love of the business but also enjoyed traveling which they did to many places across the world.

Charles is survived by his son Charles R. Wood, Jr. and his daughter Diane Goss, grandchildren C.J Wood, Anne Goss and Ben Goss, brother Robert Wood, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Roswitha Wood and Carol Wood, the loving mother of his children. He is also predeceased by his father Dr. Raymond H. Wood and mother, Ernestine Wood, brother Raymond H. Wood Jr. and sisters in law, Beverly Wood, Patricia Wood and Gwendolyn Wood.

Charles felt strongly that education was an opportunity that all who were hungry for, deserved and he supported this in many ways. He was on the Board of Grace Christian Academy for close to 20 years where he passionately devoted significant time and energy to support enrollment and expansion. In his spare time, he also enjoyed golfing, flying, skiing and travel.

His celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 21, 2021 at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church at 10731 W LaPorte Road, Mokena, IL 60448. Please visit www.DarrellHoweMortuary.com for a link to watch the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Grace Christian Academy at 4106 W 28th St, Chicago, IL 60623.