Edward Elden Wood

Edward (Ed) Wood was lovingly received into the arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, early on December 1, 2024, in Fresno, California. Surrounded by his family, Ed passed peacefully after a brief illness, leaving a legacy of faith, love, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him. Born in Chicago, Illinois, Ed's journey through life was marked by adventure, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to others. Moving to Carpinteria, California, at 14, Ed cherished the lifelong friendships formed with his Carpinteria High School class of 1962. He fell in love and married his beloved bride, Eileen (Ayervais) on June 19, 1971 in Yuma, AZ and would spend the next 53 years together in marriage. Soon after, Ed and Eileen moved to Santa Barbara, CA, where they served as church youth leaders - impacting many lives for Christ, and welcomed two children to their family: Hannah (1975) and Joel (1977). In 1978, they settled in Santa Maria, where they served their church community with passion, especially in children's and hospitality ministries, and welcomed their third child to the family: Thomas (1980). In 1988, Ed followed his calling to serve at a Christian youth camp in Creston, CA using his skills as an electrician and handyman to mentor countless individuals. This path of ministry extended globally when he and Eileen joined Awana Clubs International, serving in Japan and later in Taipei, Taiwan, and the whole pacific rim for 15 years, profoundly impacting lives with their gentle spirit and steadfast faith. Upon retiring in 2015, Ed and Eileen found a new church family at Parkside Chapel in Visalia, CA, where they continued their lifelong mission of nurturing and sharing God's love. Ed was a Navy veteran, an electrician in the IBEW Union for nearly 30 years, and a devoted family man. He delighted in classic cars, cherished his wrestling days, and famously performed a one-handed push-up on each birthday. His life was a testament to his deep faith and the love he extended to everyone, from a village church in Fiji to the subways of Taiwan. Ed's legacy will forever be remembered and celebrated by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched, including his wife of 53 years, Eileen and his children, Hannah (Mike), Joel (Ashley) and Thomas (Brad). Ed will also be fondly remembered by his four grandchildren, Madalyn, Haven, Brooklyn, and Hollyn and by his brother Jerry (Brian). And finally, he will be deeply missed by his two weeny dogs, Molly and Jazzy. There will be a Celebration of Ed's Life held Saturday, January 4th , 2025 at 1:00 P.M., at Parkside Chapel, 3200 E Walnut Ave, Visalia, CA 93292. A reception will follow the service. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Edward Elden Wood

November 18, 1943 - December 1, 2024