Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Kevin Wood Obituary
January 11, 1979 - September 28, 2024
Ann Arbor, Michigan - Kevin Wood, 45, Associate Professor of Biophysics and Physics at the University of Michigan, passed away on September 28th in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Kevin was born on January 11, 1979 in Lexington, KY and grew up with a passion for math, science, sports, and family. He earned his bachelor's degree in Chemical Physics from Centre College in Danville, KY before completing two simultaneous Ph.D.s, one in Theoretical Physics and the other in Physical Chemistry, at the University of California, San Diego. Kevin later conducted postdoctoral research at Harvard University, establishing himself as a brilliant physicist and educator. He joined the faculty at the University of Michigan in 2013, where he made significant contributions to the field of biophysics while mentoring numerous students.
Outside of his academic accomplishments, Kevin had a deep love for Kentucky basketball, biking, reading, and collecting sports cards. He cherished every moment spent watching his children's sports and activities, often the proudest father on the sidelines. His warmth, humor, and generosity touched the lives of everyone who knew him, whether they were friends, neighbors, or students.
Kevin is survived by his devoted wife, Sarah Wood; son, Sam Wood; daughter, Emily Wood; parents, Paula and Louis Campbell; sister and brother-in-law, Carmen and Donnie Goodin; brother and sister-in-law, Kris and Michelle Wood; nieces, Viviann and Alexandra Wood; nephew, Cameron Wood; and his beloved cousins, Matthew and Kurtis Wood. He is also survived by a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father, Ernest Lynn Wood.
We take solace in the fact that Kevin led a wonderfully happy and fulfilling life, one for which he felt abundant gratitude. Although no one, including he, could have anticipated his sudden passing, we are comforted by the fact that he did not suffer. We'll miss his laughter, his wisdom, and the way he made everyone feel welcome and loved.
A celebration of Kevin's life will be held on October 19th at The Venue in Ann Arbor, Michigan from 10 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. (https://experience4m.com/). In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a memorial fund in Kevin's name to support educational opportunities for young biophysics students at the University of Michigan (https://gofund.me/b5f1fcb6).
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kevin Wood
Sponsored by Lexington Herald-Leader.
Keith Dunn
November 9, 2024
Kevin was perhaps the finest student I ever had the chance to teach. A brilliant scientist and an amazing fearless human being, gone too soon.
Rosalind Allen
November 5, 2024
I am so sorry to hear that Kevin Wood has passed away. My research group and his work on very similar topics and we were often in touch by email although we never met in person. I always looked forward to the day when I would manage to have a real in person discussion with him. Kevin was always super friendly, helpful and supportive. He was extremely thoughtful in the way he did science and had great ideas which he generously shared with others. He was really a pillar of our scientific community and he will be sorely missed.
Meagan
October 21, 2024
I was very sad to learn of Kevin Wood's passing. I worked with Kevin for many years helping support his finances here at the university. He was also so kind and great to work with. He will be missed greatly! - Meagan
Kathy pece (wood)
October 9, 2024
I grew up with Kevin and Courtenay...I am so sorry for your loss Courtenay..may he fly with the angels
Lizeth Woolums
October 8, 2024
I can still remember the soft gentle smile and always very polite! May The Lord embrace all of you with His mighty arms!
Diana Niland
October 8, 2024
Sarah, your Aces family is thinking about you and your children during this difficult time. Peace be with you.
Danna Gifford
October 8, 2024
I am very sad to learn of Kevin Wood's passing. I met him only once at an academic conference, but his work on antimicrobial resistance, particularly combination therapy, was and is inspiring to me and has a great impact on my own research. His legacy will live on in the field.
Kevin
October 7, 2024
I feel odd writing anything about Kevin, given that I only met him once, but he left an impact and I'm sad I won't get a chance to tell him as much.
I interviewed for grad school at UM and spoke with Kevin at length, both in his lab and at dinner. My application was a long shot for some technical reasons that aren't worth getting into, but Kevin randomly turned to me at dinner--interrupting a steady stream of joking, of course--to tell me with disarming sincerity that "your application is the kind that inspires me/us to keep doing this."
Needless to say I had no response, totally blown away by that frank kindness and encouragement. UM declined me in the end, but I did end up with my PhD from a comparable midwest school, and am now an assistant professor. I often cite this encounter as something that kept me motivated. Those little things can make such a difference.
But also...I kind of hoped to tell him this to his face one day, and give him my gratitude. My work ended up having a fair amount of overlap with his--we had several 2nd-degrees of separation academically--and I'm extremely sad that I won't get the chance. I only chime in here as a representation of all of us (I'm sure) near-strangers for whom his kindness and exuberance also made a huge impact.
Ana
October 7, 2024
I am so sorry to hear of Kevin's death. As a faculty member, he had a wonderful reputation for cheerfully pitching in, no matter what the need. Although his appointment didn't require it, he opted to teach some of the most challenging large courses in Physics. He was always kind and courteous to everyone in the department, faculty and staff alike. I know that there are many who are deeply saddened by his loss.
Sayoko Moroi
October 6, 2024
Dearest Sarah, Sam, Emily & family,
There are no words to heal hearts with loss. I send my virtual hugs to you all.
I share "The Lord bless you and keep you....." sung by The Choirboys https://youtu.be/HIUEJygA96o?si=I34aQfEwE6ks5aBW.
You are in my prayers. Fondly, Sy Moroi
Erin
October 5, 2024
So many prayers
Showing 1 - 14 of 14 results
Make a Donation
in Kevin Wood's name
Memorial Events
for Kevin Wood
How to support Kevin's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Kevin Wood's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
