By Julia Wall

John Wood, 72, has lived in Wilmington, N.C. for his entire life. He grew up hunting, fishing and clamming and over time has developed a love for exploration and nature that he shares with his two children and his many friends. After a 38-year career with International Paper in Riegelwood, N.C., a small town just outside of Wilmington, Wood established for himself a lifestyle ruled by love for his wife, his children and a busy routine.

Since his wife of 30 years, Frankie Wood, passed away on April 5, 2012, Wood’s busy lifestyle has become busier. Whether he’s picking strawberries, mowing lawns for old friends or walking the loop with his best friend early in the morning, John Wood is constantly in motion. “It keeps my mind off of things,” Wood said about his routines. Remaining busy and always moving is his way of coping. However, one may think of the grieving process as quiet and somber, it’s always clear to Wood’s family and friends that he is embracing life as it moves forward and living every day to its fullest potential. He is a giving, loving and caring person who has never met a stranger in his life.