Dr. Jesse R. Wood, Ph.D., was born on June 7th, 1933, in Denver, CO, the son of Jesse R. Wood, Jr. and Dolores R. Wood. He attended Denver public schools, and graduated from the University of Denver with majors in Chemistry and Music, and early membership in Phi Beta Kappa. He earned a Master of Science in Chemistry degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Michigan.

Dr. Wood taught Chemistry at Emporia State University, and rose to Full Professor at The College of Emporia. Then he served as a Pesticide Residue Chemist in the Kansas Department of Agriculture for 28 years.

Dr. Wood served briefly as a professional musician. He was also a state champion target rifle shooter.

A younger sister, Cari Wolfe, of Carefree, Arizona, preceded him in death.

Dr. Wood had a 50-year ministry to "bind up the broken-hearted," according to Isaiah 61:1 and Luke 4:18 in the Bible. He enjoyed giving church children golden dollars on their birthday. He was a Bible scholar, even in the Greek language of the New Testament. He was a 48 year member of Faith Lutheran Church, and wrote two books on religious subjects.

In the Bible, Ephesians 2:10 says God has prepared tasks in advance for us to perform. Some of these may remain for Jesse to perform in heaven.

A visitation will be begin at 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 22, 2022 at Faith Lutheran Church, 1716 SW Gage Blvd, Topeka, KS 66604, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery, Topeka. Penwell-Gabel Cremations, Funerals & Receptions in Topeka is assisting the family.

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