Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Winston Wood Obituary
Winston Wood of Novato passed away on Sunday, September 13. Winston was born in Oakland, California on August 8, 1941 to Willsie W. Wood and Louise P. Wood. As a youngster, Winston enjoyed mathematics and Boy Scouts, where he attained the rank of Eagle Scout. Winston attended Oakland High School, where he was active in sports and was Student Body President and Valedictorian.
In 1959 Winston enrolled at Williams College, where he was a member of Phi Gamma Delta. He graduated in 1963 and enlisted in the Coast Guard Reserves.
In 1966 he married Barbara Paskell, and they initially resided in New York while Winston pursued a career in marketing. They moved to Cleveland, Ohio where their first son, David, was born and the couple relocated to Menlo Park, California in 1969, where their second son, Jason, was born.
During this time Winston earned an MBA from Santa Clara University and served on the Los Lomitas District School Board.
In 1986 Winston married his second wife, Gail Ohlendorf, to whom he was married until his death. Following his corporate career Winston joined Gail in the importing business. A notable aspect of this partnership was the opportunity to travel, and they made cherished personal connections with people around the world.
In retirement Winston remained active. Winston and Gail were founding members of Slow Food Marin County. In addition to traveling with Gail, Winston played golf, tennis and pickleball. Winston also volunteered in local schools in Novato, was active in the Rotary Club and served on the Novato Planning Commission, and the board of the Marin County Literacy Program, including two terms as its president.
Winston is survived by his wife, Gail, his sons David (Elisabeth) and Jason (Bobbie), his five grandchildren, Henri, Harper, Lucille, William and Vivienne, and his brothers Will and Alan.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers that donations be made to Little Wishes of San Anselmo.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Winston Wood
4 Entries
Margaret Quaka
September 29, 2020
Great photo of Winston! He was a gracious host when any of Gail’s family came out to visit in California!
Little Wishes
September 29, 2020
Thank you Mr. Wood. We are forever grateful for your love and support!
Laura Euphrat
September 29, 2020
Thank you Mr. Wood for bringing so much joy to seriously ill hospitalized children. We are so so grateful for all of your love and support over the years and honored that more joy will be brought to these children in your memory. When we grant wishes today, we will see the children's smiles and think of you. Much Love to your family. Laura Euphrat RN, Little Wishes President (www.littlewishes.org)
Barbara Knauf
September 27, 2020
Having been born in the same year as Winston, we sometimes talked about being the same age. I was a neighbor and a friend to both Winston and his wife Gail for about ten years. I remember him as a friendly and smiling person and years ago we all had enjoyed a few garden parties together. His passing saddens me, the world has lost a very nice and compassionate, helpful person. At last he is free of all physical suffering. May his soul rest in peace with God.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Winston Wood's name
Memorial Events
for Winston Wood
How to support Winston's loved ones
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 more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
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 moreWays to honor Winston 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
