Catherine "Elaine" Wood, 97, longtime resident of Baker City, Oregon, died March 23, 2022, with her family at her side. A private family graveside will be held.
Elaine was born on October 21, 1924, to parents Louis and Johanna Osborn in Baker, Oregon. At 12 years old, she began attending St. Francis Academy where she graduated in 1942.
Elaine worked at the Eltrym Theatre where she met her future husband, Hershel Wood. They were married June 10, 1945. She later worked for the County Clerk as an Assistant City Recorder at the courthouse. Soon after, Elaine ran a childcare service for 19 years, caring for a total of 104 children, many of whom she kept in touch with over the course of her life.
Elaine was a devoted Catholic and member of the St. Francis Cathedral and Altar Society. She was also a “Lady Elk”. Elaine took pride in baking and tending to her flower beds and roses. Her favorite colors were pink and blue. She cherished many lifelong friendships, staying in contact by writing letters, also a hobby of hers.
Memorable moments in her life included her marriage, and the birth and raising of her two sons. Elaine especially loved the company of her family and lived by the philosophy; family always comes first. Elaine was treasured by those who loved her. She was the most kind, caring person.
Elaine was preceded in death by her husband of 78 years, Hershel J. Wood, both parents and brother John Osborn.
She is survived by her sons Daniel Louis Wood of Nashville, TN, Timothy R. Wood of Baker City, OR, and granddaughter Tayler Catherine Wood of Baker City, OR.
For those who would like to make a memorial donation Elaine asked they be made to St. Francis Cathedral, through Tami’s Pine Valley Funeral Home and Cremation Services, PO Box 543 Halfway, Oregon 97834. Online condolences can be shared at www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com