Wendell Paul Wood, Jr

Wendell Paul Wood, Jr., affectionately known as Butch, passed away on November 7, 2026, in New Palestine. He was born on August 29, 1943, in Indianapolis.

Butch built a life marked by hard work, service, and deep ties to his community. He attended New Palestine High School and Indiana Central, and he went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force. In his working life, he was associated with Kroger and Transervice Trucking, where his skill and professionalism were evident. Among the accomplishments he took great pride in were earning recognition as a Master Truck Driver and becoming an Indiana Truck Rodeo Champion.

He was also well known for the energy and enthusiasm he brought to the things he loved. Butch was a longtime baseball coach and umpire in the New Palestine Youth League, giving his time to young athletes and to the community he cared about so much. He loved playing golf and was a devoted fan of IU Basketball. He was also a member of the New Palestine American Legion Post 182 and the New Palestine Lions Club, reflecting his lasting commitment to fellowship and civic life.

Above all, Butch will be remembered by those closest to him. He is survived by his wife, Karen Wood, and by his sons, Keith D. Wood and his wife, Timi, and Michael K. Wood and his wife, Tonya. He also leaves behind his five grandchildren and five great grandchildren.  Their lives, and the lives of many others, were enriched by his steady presence, his dedication, and the example he set through work, service, and community involvement.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Wood Hill Parker; his father, Wendell Paul Wood, Sr.; his mother, Thelma Jean Wood; his grandparents, Elmer and Annabel Merlau; and his grandparents, Cleon and Golda Frey.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 21, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Bell Mortuary & Crematory, Shangrila Chapel, 1444 US-52, Fountaintown, IN 46130. A Military Rites presentation will take place at 3 pm.  
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Butch's honor to either the New Palestine American Legion Post 182 or the Greenfield Honor Guard.  

Online condolences can be left for the family at www.bellmortuary.com.  

Butch’s memory will live on in the family he loved, the community he served, and the many lives he touched through his kindness, dedication, and generous spirit.