Stephen R. Wood passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully, at the age of 73 on December 1, 2025, with his devoted daughter Aryn and cherished wife Kathleen by his side. Born December 19, 1951, in Plattsburgh, NY, to Stanley Grant and Shirley Irene (Rabideau) Wood, Steve grew up on South Catherine Street—a neighborhood with stories he told of hard work and mischief with his brother Stan.

A proud Hornet, Steve excelled as a standout athlete at Plattsburgh High School, passions he carried into his adulthood as a referee and youth sports coach. He left a lasting impression on countless young athletes, taking pride in instilling confidence and sportsmanship. Steve's work ethic was evident in his nearly 36 years with New York State Electric & Gas, and in his modeling of perseverance by earning his business degree from SUNY Plattsburgh while working full-time and raising his children.

Above all else, Steve will be remembered for the way he loved deeply and unapologetically, with all his heart and soul. His most treasured roles were that of "Da" and "Papa". To know him was to see the special twinkle in his eye when he spoke of family, and to feel his famous giant bear hugs. Steve considered himself truly fortunate to have shared many happy years with his late wife, Dorothy "Dee", and, in later life, to be blessed with love anew with his wife Kathleen. Together, after both being widowed, he and Kathleen found joy again, hosting lively gatherings for dear friends in NY and Vero Beach, and enjoying memorable travel adventures.

Stephen is survived by his children Aryn Elizabeth and Kasey Stephen, wife Kathleen, brother Stanley (Janet, Michelle & Allison), favorite son-in-law James Matthew, stepsons Marc (Tally, Koby & Dylan) and David Hazel, and granddaughters Kennedy Aryn Elizabeth, Caroline Elizabeth, and Victoria Jaymes. He was predeceased by his parents, wife Dee, and daughter Sarah Anne.

Calling hours will be held Friday, December 12, 2025 from 4:00-6:00pm at the R.W. Walker Funeral Home, in Plattsburgh. A funeral service will be held Saturday, December 13th at 11:00am at Trinity Episcopal Church in Plattsburgh, followed by a reception and tribute at Mickey's Restaurant & Bar from 1:00-3:00pm.

Flowers can be sent to the R.W. Walker Funeral Home, or donations in his honor can be made to the Interfaith Food Shelf where he previously volunteered.

To share a memory or condolence with the family, please visit www.rwwalkerfh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the R.W. Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 69 Court Street, Plattsburgh, NY.