James L. Wood II, 79, formerly of Colton

Mr. James L. Wood II, age 79 of Lake Placid, NY and formerly of Colton
and Wilmington, NY passed away at the Elderwood of Uihlein Lake Placid Nursing Home on February 3, 2024.

Arrangements for cremation are with the Garner Funeral Service in Potsdam, NY. Burial will take place at a later date at the Pleasant Mound Cemetery in Colton, NY.

James was born on May 7, 1944 in Potsdam, NY to the late James L. Wood I and Grace Thomaris.

He was a graduate of Potsdam Central High School. He received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Potsdam State University.

He taught for a year but changed fields and went to work for the Merchant Marines out of New York City.

He was a ship navigator for 25 years and sailed all over the world including spending 8 years on a cruise ship in Hawaii until his retirement in 2007.

After he retired he worked a couple of summers as the Assistant Golf Pro at Lake Placid Club and then worked seasonally for NYSDEC at Wilmington Notch Campground until 3 years prior to his death.

Before that James served our country in the United States Navy from 1944 until his honorable discharge in 1982. He served in Vietnam.

James enjoyed golfing, fishing, fly fishing and spending his winters in Florida.

James is survived by his former significant other for 32 years, Darlene Thompson and her 2 daughters that Jim helped raise, Kelly (Brian) Corcoran and Kerry (Anthony) Dellea. He is also survived by 3 grandchildren that he cherished, Matthew Corcoran, Alexander Dellea and Olivia Dellea.

He is predeceased by his brother Fred Wood.

Condolence for Mr. James L. Wood II can be shared at www.garnerfh.com.