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Virgil Wood

Virgil Clayton Wood, 92, of Sioux City, began on his greatest journey on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017, with a camera in his hand.

There will be no services. Arrangements are under the direction of Morningside Chapel, Christy-Smith Funeral Home.

A traveler by heart, he had been to more than 22 countries. He was a friend to every stranger and every stranger was a friend he loved to talk with. His two favorite sayings were, “You’re never too old to learn,” and “They can take everything from you but they can’t take your mind.”

Virgil was born on Sept. 1, 1924, to Vern and Edith Wood. He attended St. Ambrose College in Davenport, Iowa, before enlisting into the U.S. Navy as a communications officer during World War II. He was present at the signing of the peace treaty with Japan.

After his military service, he graduated from Buena Vista College in Storm Lake, Iowa.

After graduation, he was a banker in Storm Lake. Later, he moved to Sioux City and worked for Iowa Employee Agency. He finished his career working at Iowa Public Service.

Virgil was a member of the Abu Bekr Shriners and sang with the Shrine Chanters. He was also a member of the Grand Commandery of Knight Templar, Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, and High Twelve Founder’s Club. He had more than 50 years membership with these clubs.

Virgil is survived by his adopted son, Vu Nguyen, who he had loved and cared for like his own flesh and blood. He is survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Florence Foster Wood.

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