William Henderson Wood

William Henderson Wood shared a love of life and charm that will be missed by all. Known for his indomitable spirit, he died in San Antonio, Texas on October 31, 2015 after a courageous battle with cancer, he was 92. Born in Marshall, Texas on January 21, 1923, he is preceded in death by his parents, Etta May Henderson and Robert Wood, his brothers and sisters-in law, Robert and Loise Wood, Perry and Lois Wood, his sister and brother-in-law, Dorothy and Huey Keasler, his first wife, Patsy Wood and his oldest daughter, Susan Wood.

Bill joined the Army Air Force at the age of 17 and was trained to fly a P-47 Thunderbolt Fighter. He was stationed in England during World War II and escorted bombers on their missions to Germany. On May 7, 1944, during his 23rd mission he was shot down over Germany, bailed out over Holland and captured by the Germans and put into Stalag Luft III POW camp. On January 28, 1945 the POW camp was evacuated due to the Russians advance. The prisoners marched for six days during a blizzard, ill-equipped until they reached Nuremberg where they were housed in an infested POW camp left by the Italians. On April 29, 1945 Patton's Third Army steamrolled into the compound and liberated the prisoners. After the war Bill attended University of Texas where he received his Bachelors of Science in Petroleum Engineering specializing in Reservoir Engineering. This led to a 56 year long career in evaluating oil and gas properties in South Texas. He was known for his accurate evaluations and was sought after his entire career. He was a member of The Argyle, Club Giraud, member and past President of Oak Hills Country Club, and a Founding Member of the Petroleum Club. He was an avid golfer and played golf on every continent except Antarctica.He loved to travel. He went on many People to People Sports Committee trips to Europe and also traveled with the Texas Exes. His extreme generosity, handsomeness, bravery, charisma and sense of humor continue to inspire all who knew him. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church.

There will be a private burial. The family would like to thank Mr. Wood's caregivers, Pura Lopez, Vangie Rodriguez, Teresa Bernal and Vitas Hospice.

MEMORIAL SERVICE WEDNESDAY,NOVEMBER 4, 2015,2:00 P.M.,TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH,319 EAST MULBERRY. Those who desire may make memorial contributions to Trinity Baptist Church at 319 East Mulberry, San Antonio, Texas 78212, or a charity of your choice.