FROM THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF RESCUE A GOLDEN OF ARIZONA (RAGofAZ):

It is with profound sorrow that we share the news that Bob Wood, our longtime Director of Golden Rescue, has passed away following a brief illness.

Those of us who knew Bob found his commitment to our mission both inspiring and astounding. From the moment he made Golden Retriever rescue the centerpiece of his life, he devoted every day to saving these animals he loved so well. Bob was an energetic road warrior who would drive anywhere to give a Golden a ride in his “dogmobile” … and start that dog on its journey to a new life.

It is because of Bob’s leadership that RAGofAZ ventured into new partnerships with other rescue organizations to help save hundreds of adult Golden Retrievers and puppies from puppy mills in other states – work that continues today. Bob also led us through the difficult challenges of international rescue and helped to bring scores of desperate Goldens to us from China, Turkey, South Korea, and Mexico. He truly believed that hunger, sickness, and despair know no language, no culture, and no boundary.

Bob was a modest man, so not many know that Bob proudly served his country working for the FBI. He also served in the Air Force including special assignments with the Defense Intelligence Agency, White House Communications Agency, and Defense Nuclear Agency. Incredibly, following his “retirement,” he went on to work at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, where he did eventually retire … only to become a “Golden Hero” with RAGofAZ.

Bob will be honored with a burial at Arlington National Cemetery, a fitting final resting place.

We offer our heartfelt condolences to Bob’s wife, Darcy Wood, and their families. Their grief surely weighs heavily, but it is shared by so many at RAGofAZ who also loved and admired Bob. He has left big shoes to fill … and an empty space in our hearts.

Condolences may be sent to Darcy Wood at 17734 W. Camino Real Drive, Surprise AZ 85374. Darcy plans to hold a Celebration of Life for Bob in the fall.