James Edward Wood

James Edward “Jim” Wood, 71, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Jim was born March 29, 1954 to Edward and Anne Wood. He was a lifelong resident of Battle Creek and graduated from Harper Creek High School in 1972. He was a well driller by trade at Wood Well Drilling, where he proudly drilled the first plastic well in Michigan. He worked for the family business from the time he was a teenager until he eventually retired. Jim was also a volunteer firefighter. In his free time, Jim was an avid storyteller who also loved fishing, hunting, tinkering in his barn and a good meal. He loved exploring the Upper Peninsula and was quite the history buff.

Jim is survived by his sister, Susan; daughter, Melissa (Austin) and stepchildren, Randy Jr. (Stephanie), Bo (Jessica), Hope (Brandon) and Tim (Stacy); grandchildren, Taylor (Travis), Tara, Charles, Amelia and Daniele (David); six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kitty; parents, Anne and Edward; sister, Sandra and son, Wyley.

Jim’s family will receive friends Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where a memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Donations in his memory may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. Personal messages for Jim’s family may be shared at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.