William "Bear" Edward Wood

Bill, better known as “Bear” to his family and friends, 77, of Carmel, Indiana, passed away on January 31, 2021. Born September 9, 1943, to Lowell and Julia (Petrie) Wood. Residing in Carmel most of his life, he graduated from Westfield High School in 1961.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Laura (LaPlaunt) Wood, his parents and his grandson, William John Harrington. He is survived by his two children, Chip (Angi) Wood and Julie (John) Harrington, grandchildren Emily and Ethan Wood, siblings Rebecca Poole and Russell (Nancy) Wood and his nieces and nephews.

He served for four years in the U.S. Air Force followed by 38 years of service to Indiana Bell/Ameritech/SBC. He retired in 2003.

Bill was an lifetime member of the Carmel American Legion Post 155 and the Carmel VFW. He was a lifelong fan of NASCAR, the Indianapolis 500, the Indianapolis Colts, the Chicago Cubs and the Indiana Hoosiers.

A private service was held on Friday, February 5, 2021. A celebration of life for Bill will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Carmel American Legion Post 155 Scholarship Program or HVAF of Indiana, Inc. care of Carmel American Legion Women’s Auxiliary.