James Mackill Wood

James Mackill Wood obituary

James Mackill Wood

James Wood Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by N.H. Scott & Hanekamp Funeral Home on Sep. 17, 2025.
James "Jim" Mackill Wood, age 94, of Northfield, IL and Naples, FL, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2025.

Born in Evanston and raised in Glencoe, Jim attended New Trier High School, where he excelled in athletics, lettering in golf, football, baseball, and basketball. He was also a competitive speed-skater. Sports-whether playing or watching-were a lifelong passion.

Jim went on to graduate from the University of Illinois, where he was a proud member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity.

He served his country honorably as a Captain in the U.S. Army, earning his Pilot's Wings-a true patriot in every sense.

After returning to the Midwest, Jim married the love of his life, Nancy. Together, they raised three daughters and built a life centered on family, faith, and friendship. He was a devoted husband and a loving father.

Jim and Nancy were longtime members of Skokie Country Club, Chicago Curling Club, Middlefork Tennis Club, and the Hole in the Wall Golf Club in Naples, FL-communities where they forged lifelong friendships and shared their love of sport.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Barbara "Bobbie" Wood, Donna L. Wood, and Margaret "Mardi" Jensa; his beloved granddaughter, Tory Mackill Jensa; and his cherished Westie, Holly Wood. He is also remembered fondly by many extended "Wood Family" relatives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Jean Wood; his siblings, Margaret, Art, Meta, and George; and by his beloved spouses, Sonja Phenner and Nancy Baird Wood, with whom he shared 55 wonderful years.

Jim's kind heart, generous spirit, and unwavering compassion left an indelible mark on everyone he met. He was, truly, a gentleman.

"Hit 'em straight!" and Happy Heavenly 95th Birthday. Here's to your fifth hole-in-one. Until we meet again.

A prayer service will be held October 3, 2025 at 1 pm at Winnetka Congregational Church Memorial Garden, 725 Pine Street, Winnetka, with a gathering to follow at Skokie Country Club.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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