Frederick G. Wood Sr.

Frederick G. Wood, Sr., 79, of Thurmont, Maryland, passed from this life on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. 

Born March 16, 1947, in Washington, D.C., he was the son of the late Gerry E. Wood and Katherine T. Wood (Strobel). 

Fred proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. His commitment to service continued throughout his life and became one of the qualities that defined him. Fred retired after 20 years as a career firefighter with the District of Columbia Fire Department. His dedication to the fire service extended far beyond his own career. For 30 years, he served as an instructor with Maryland Fire and Rescue, sharing his knowledge, experience, and passion for the fire service with generations of firefighters. Through his years as both a firefighter and instructor, Fred had the opportunity to mentor countless men and women in the fire service, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge and service that will continue through those he taught.His commitment to the fire service was also evident in his many years of volunteer service. He was a former President and Chief and a life member of Citizens Truck Company. He was also a life member of both Independent Hose Company and Vigilant Hose Company.

His many decades of service reflected not only his love of firefighting, but also his deep commitment to the communities and people he served. Fred was a member of the Retired Firefighters Association of Washington, D.C.; IAFF Local 36; Tyrian Lodge No. 205 AF & AM; and the Train Collectors Association. He was also a life member of the American Legion, VFW Auxiliary, Sons of Confederate Veterans, and Camp Kanawha/Frederick County Fish & Game Protective Association. When he wasn't serving his community, Fred enjoyed the simple things that brought him happiness. 

He loved spending time at the beach in North Carolina with his family, fishing with his beloved dogs, Katie and Dixie at Camp Kanawha and he was an avid Lionel Train Collector. These were the places and moments where he could relax, enjoy the outdoors, and, most importantly, be surrounded by those he loved. Fred had a special place in his heart for animals. In his older years, he opened his home to older dogs in need of rescue, giving them a loving and caring home in which to spend their final years. His compassion for animals was just one reflection of his generous and caring nature. 

Above all else, family was the most important part of Fred's life. He was incredibly proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and enjoyed every opportunity he had to spend time with them. Whether it was family gathering, holidays, or simply being together, those moments meant the most to him. His love for his family was constant, and the pride he took in each of them was unmistakable.

He is survived by his three children, Cindy Grimes and husband John of Rocky Ridge, Maryland; Judy Cochran of Thurmont, Maryland; and Freddy Wood, Jr. and wife Gina of South Carolina; eleven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.In addition to his parents, Fred was preceded in death by his six sisters, Judy, Dorris, Jean, Linda, Lillian, and Mary Alice.

There will be a celebration of life for family and friends from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the Vigilant Hose Company Activities Building, 17701 Creamery Road, Emmitsburg, Maryland 21727.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Fred's memory to The Fallen Fire Fighters Foundation, St. Judes or The Frederick County Humane Society