Florence Helen Wood

Florence Helen Wood, 98, passed away in Downey, California on May 23, 2016. Born on April 10, 1918 in International Falls, Minnesota, Florence was the only child born to her parents Ernest & Jennie (Bergseng) Simpson. She had two children, Shirley & Roger.



Florence grew up in Jameson, Minnesota where her father worked at a local sawmill during the great depression. Growing up she enjoyed ice skating and was a very good swimmer. Early in life, she was married to Irwin Blumer for 13 years and together they were the parents of Shirley and Roger. She later lived in Chisholm, Minnesota and was happily married Tom Wood until he was taken by M.S. in 1966. She managed Tommys Bar before eventually moving to Portland, Oregon with her son and daughter-in-law after selling the family business. She enjoyed 17 years in Oregon, living near her son, until his sudden passing. Her grief was compounded when her daughter, Shirley, unexpectedly passed away 3 weeks later. After the loss of her children she moved to Cerritos where she made a new home with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.



Her family shares that she was a great grandma in every sense of the word. She was strong willed and powerful. She loved to cook. She had many favorites, including barley hot dish. There was no way to keep her out of the kitchen. Florence believed in God and was involved with Bethany Lutheran Church. You always had to be careful when talking politics with her, as she loved her country. Florence was most proud of her family when hearing about her familys educational achievements, graduations, and all their other accomplishments.



Florence is preceded in death by her husband, Tom Wood; and two children, Shirley & Roger. She is survived by her three grandchildren, Brian Bana, Jennifer Bana Bopp and Amy Blumer Smith; and five great-grandchildren, Kristin & Amber Bopp, Grace & Oliva Smith, and Isaiah Bana. She lived a beautiful 98 years and will be forever missed.