Sean Barrett Wood

Sean Barrett Wood, age 59, of Oregon, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, following a long and courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by his father, Randy Wood, stepmother Geri Gelander and her daughters, Jennifer and Jessica.

Born on November 24, 1966, Sean was the son of Susie Kaye (Ingraham) Wood, who preceded him in death in 1995, and Lyle Randall Wood. Sean spoke fondly of his family’s annual vacations to Florida beaches, as well as time spent with his grandparents (Leonard and Veda Wood, and Jim and Ruth Ingraham) and his many cousins.

Sean graduated from Oregon High School in 1985 and earned a certificate in Golf Course and Turf Management from Kishwaukee College in 1986. Over the years, he worked at Chrysler Corporation (Belvidere), in golf course maintenance at Oregon Country Club, as a machinist at Wood Brothers in Oregon, and later as a CNC operator at Woodhaven Industries.

He loved the outdoors and was often seen biking or walking throughout town. Sean was an avid follower of the news, a devoted listener of National Public Radio, and always ready for a spirited conversation about current events. He was a die-hard Packers fan and also enjoyed classic television, especially The Andy Griffith Show and Gunsmoke.

Sean cherished simple pleasures—a good steak, going out for breakfast, sharing a beer with friends, and gathering with family for holidays, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners. Family and friends will forever miss Sean’s gentle nature, dry sense of humor, and his appreciation for the quiet moments of everyday life.

A private remembrance of Sean’s life will be held, in accordance with his wishes. The family would also like to express gratitude to the outstanding team at St. Anthony’s Hospital (Rockford) for their compassionate and dedicated care throughout Sean’s final moments. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society will be appreciated.

https://www.cancer.org