Obituary

Thomas Wood died at home on the snowy night of January 5, 2022. He was born
September 16, 1951 in Richland, Washington to Betty and Zane Wood. His
parents turned a hobby into a business and started a plant nursery where Tom
worked and developed a love of gardening. In high school he met his life’s
companion Pamela Brownell. They began college together at WSU. In 1973, they
embarked on a long trip to Europe and northern Africa where they were inspired
by works of art in museums like the Prado in Madrid, beautiful adventures in the
alps of Yugoslavia and exotic Morocco.
When Tom returned to school he moved from studies in chemistry to fine art, and
finished school at Fairhaven College, WWU. In 1976 he bought an etching press.
It was a big step in what became his lifelong focus, expressing his creativity in a
constant flow of prints, drawings, paintings, and sculptures. He studied drawing
and much more with Tom Sherwood who was a lifelong mentor for him. He
learned oil painting in the company of John Cole. Tom’s craft and vision were also
greatly influenced by endless hours in art museums, especially during long stays in
Florence, Italy.
At home Tom spent his days moving between his lush garden and his studio,
always a tool in hand: paint brush, hoe, etching needle, trowel or drawing pencil.
Tom loved the company of many friends, colleagues, and family. He appreciated
and cared about others, readily sharing his thoughts on their work and their visions.
Every year there were camping and sailing trips, hikes with his wife and often
fellow artist Allen Moe. Painting outside, drawing, watching birds, identifying
plants.
Tom’s etchings and paintings range from fantastic allegory to naturalistic
landscapes and he often merged the two worlds. His art and his life are an
expression of an honest and inquiring mind, a playful spirit quick to make a joke, a
deep appreciation of the natural world, and an endless imagination.
In all his work he kept an eye toward beauty. Tom will be deeply missed.
Thank you to Hospice for your great care and wonderful nurses. And thank you to
family and friends who have been kind and generous in so many ways.
A memorial service will be held in the spring.
Donations may be made to Whatcom Land Trust.